The project supports the green transition of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the integrated application of green chemistry principles and circular economy business models. Implemented with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project aims to improve resource efficiency, reduce the use of hazardous substances, strengthen competitiveness, and enable long-term sustainable value creation in line with EU standards and just transition objectives.
The project combines capacity building, technical assistance, and mentoring to help selected SMEs adopt safer chemical practices and develop circular business models. It addresses key knowledge and skills gaps in the private sector, raises awareness of the environmental and economic benefits of green and circular transformation, and promotes good practices from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region.
Two complementary streams of work are implemented in a coordinated manner: Green Chemistry in Manufacturing and the Circular Economy Accelerator for SMEs.
Within the Green Chemistry stream, the project supports companies in identifying and substituting hazardous substances, improving environmental compliance, and applying green chemistry guidelines in their production processes through baseline assessments, environmental audits, tailored training, and expert guidance.
In parallel, the Circular Economy Accelerator for SMEs strengthens and upgrades an existing acceleration programme by providing hands-on training, coaching, and mentoring. SMEs are supported in developing Circular Economy Transition Plans, identifying bankable project ideas, and improving their readiness to access green finance and invest in circular solutions.
By linking green chemistry and circular economy approaches, the project contributes to safer chemical management, reduced environmental impacts, and sustainable industrial innovation, while supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s alignment with international environmental and green transition commitments.
The project is implemented in the period November 2025 – October 2027, in cooperation with Enova d.o.o. Sarajevo, the Cleaner Production Centre of Serbia, and TAUW.