Tirana, November 14, 2023.

The European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) launched the new “EU for Circular Economy and Circular Economy for Sustainable Urban Development” project today. 

Implemented by GIZ Albania, and working in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of the Republic of Albania, the 3.5 year, 14.6 M EUR project will help Albania reduce waste and transition to a circular economy model by assisting Albania to:

• Develop an improved and EU-compliant waste management legal framework including training on implementation, enforcement and monitoring;
• Introduce green business models such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in three waste streams;
• Support circular economy measures in 15 partner municipalities, including waste management services, establishing and improving recycling measures, such as Composting Plants and Material Recovery Facilities.

The project will work with businesses, non-profit organizations, and academia to nurture innovative, gender-responsive green products, services, and circular business models.

“Waste management is essential for transitioning to a healthier and cleaner future. Today in Albania, just 76% of annual household waste is collected, and only 18% is recycled.  By processing and reusing this waste, not only can we lower the environmental impact, but we can also create tens of thousands of new jobs. As the global environmental leader, the EU is happy to support Albania in developing its circular economy to improve the lives of Albanians and to prepare Albania for EU membership”, said Hubert Perr, Head of Cooperation of the EU in Albania.  

“Implementing circular economy principles in waste management is expected to reduce primary resource utilization and foster a robust, resilient economy with green job creation in the country. This new project will support Albania's legal transformation and implementing strategies of chapter 27 - environment, in line with the EU Framework Directive and setting an example for the region and beyond”- stated Ms. Marion Fleuth-Leferink German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, BMZ.

Present at the launching ceremony, the Minister of Tourism and Environment Ms. Mirela Kumbaro and the German Ambassador to Albania Mr. Karlfried Bergner welcomed the new project that will significantly contribute to implement EU environmental standards and circular economy principles in Albania.

About the European Union in Albania

The European Union is Albania’s strongest development partner, providing over EUR 100 million annually in grant assistance to support the Albanian people and help Albania adopt and implement key political, institutional, social and economic reforms to comply with EU values and progressively align with its rules.

Further information on EU funded projects in Albania and EU-Albanian cooperation can be found at https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/albania_en