UNDP, under the EU-funded joint programme “Circular Economy: Waste Reduction and Recycling for Citizens’ Health”, announces a school competition aimed at strengthening public schools in the field of circular economy. 

The joint programme seeks to reduce waste and promote recycling by strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems, thereby contributing to the protection of human health and the efficient use of resources. The project supports Georgia’s transition to a greener, more inclusive, and circular economy.

Objectives of the Competition

The main objective of the Eco-Award competition is to strengthen and support schools that already have an eco-club or plan to establish one within the framework of the competition. The programme aims to encourage practical, innovative, and inclusive projects implemented by students and teachers, promote sustainable and circular practices, foster behavioural change, and lay the foundation for expanding waste reduction and recycling practices.

Activities implemented by public schools may include conducting simple waste audits or research within the school, organising awareness-raising campaigns, and setting up proper waste sorting and recycling corners. Schools may also promote extending product life cycles through initiatives such as book exchange, repair, and reuse of school materials.

Who Can Apply

• Public schools that do not yet have an eco-club but are ready to establish one 
• Public schools where an eco-club is already functioning 

Applications are open to public schools from all regions of Georgia.

Submission of Applications

Applications must be completed using the designated application form (Annex I). The form can be downloaded and filled out digitally, or printed, completed by hand, and submitted as a scanned copy.

The application must include a description of the school initiative, expected results, innovative elements, and a plan outlining how students, eco-club members, and teachers will be involved.

Detailed information about the competition, the application form, and additional information about Extended Producer Responsibility are provided in the attached documents.

The subject line of the email must state: “Eco-Award Competition – School Name – Region”

Deadline for submission: 15 May 2026, 18:00

Completed application forms (digital or scanned versions) must be sent to: circulareconomy.ge@undp.org

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

The UNDP representative will contact the selected schools by June 20.

Contact Information

For any questions regarding the application, please contact: circulareconomy.ge@undp.org

Applicants are kindly requested to carefully review the full description of the Eco-Award competition before applying.