The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in cooperation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, made a notable appearance at the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) in Brussels in mid-April. Serbia was one of 40 exhibitors in the Expo Zone, promoting its innovators on the global market. Serbia, alongside Finland, was the only country to collectively promote its economic innovations at one stand. Over 60 innovations aimed at waste reduction and converting waste into new raw materials were presented at the forum.

Visitors were impressed by the number and creativity of the projects. A standout was the innovative solution by “Belinda Animals” and the Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković,” demonstrating that mealworms can decompose сtyrofoam into protein-rich organic matter suitable for animal feed.

Other showcased innovations included the production of biodegradable cups and bags, food coloring and adhesives for industry and construction from fruit and vegetable waste, the use of textile waste and waste glass to make building materials, cigarette packs and surplus printing paper to make handmade paper and boxes, old newspapers to make pencils and crayons, and driftwood from rivers to make exercise equipment, as well as the recycling of old cables to produce copper and aluminium granulate.

A special session focused on insect-based waste reduction solutions, featuring Serbia’s mealworm project alongside examples from South Africa and Lesotho. Quality promotional materials, including engaging video presentations, enhanced Serbia’s presence at the forum.

The Forum emphasized that combating climate change is impossible without a circular economy and reducing the overuse of non-renewable resources. The next World Circular Economy Forum will be held in 2025 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.