CONNECTING CIRCULAR INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS THROUGHOUT EUROPE AND MOLDOVA

While easing its Euro-integration process, Moldova has increasingly placed importance on the adoption of circular economy practices as a means for achieving sustainability. The circular economy model, which prioritizes efficient use of resources, gives credence to the idea of reducing waste and is in line with the other initiatives implemented by the EU under the umbrella of sustainability. In this paper, we seek to address the issue of Moldova’s membership in the European Union’s (EU) Circular Innovation Ecosystems (CIEs) in particular how membership in these ecosystems influences Moldova’s circular economy projects. The study employs qualitative methodology and utilizes data from EU-funded programmes, policy frameworks, and interviews with stakeholders based in Moldova and the EU. The overall aim of this study is to understand the status of Moldova, from the perspective of the CIE, its accomplishments, and the hurdles it has to overcome on the way toward becoming more open to an innovative economy. So far, the evidence indicates that Moldova has efficiently worked to bring her national regulatory regimes closer to that of the EU, securing financing for circular economy policies, and strengthening ties with EU states. Moldova has benefited from the regional policy, in particular, the Neighbourhood, Development, and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, and in 2023 150 million Euros were allocated for energy security and environmental protection. In the same fashion strong ties with Romania and Germany have facilitated the flow of circular technologies into the country. This transition would ensure progressive and evolving growth of the economy, environmental protection, and better quality of life for individuals. Improving engagement among end users and managing operational hurdles help enhance Moldova’s coherence with EU CIEs and accelerate change in the economy in the direction of circular.