Project Summary:

The “Enabling and Inclusive Green Transition in the Republic of Moldova” project will create the conditions for an inclusive and sustainable green transition. The project will combine cross-sectoral decision-making through joint stakeholder platforms with capacity-building initiatives, promotion of green business models and transportation, and the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

The project will also advance circular economy approaches, extended producer responsibility, and improved air quality management. It will focus on education and awareness-raising, dissemination of best policy practices, information sharing, networking, and pilot-testing of green transition solutions. Together, these actions will ensure that the vision of a green transformation is widely understood, supported, and implemented.

Objectives:

• Support the Government of Moldova to engage sustainably in a transformative green agenda by enhancing building capacities and partnerships, legal development, awareness, and encouraging investments in low-emission and resource-efficient economy;
• Create employment opportunities for women and men by testing innovations, supporting sustainable green businesses, and promoting high-value forest business models along with energy plantations;
• Advance ESG principles (Environmental, Social, and Governance) across institutions and the private sector to foster responsible, transparent, and sustainable practices;
• Improve citizens’ access to separate collection systems, such as dedicated facilities for recyclable and biodegradable waste are not suitable for door-to-door collection;
• Optimise the road transportation routes and to improve air quality management;
• Integrate education for sustainable development into school curricula and strengthen environmental education and awareness.
   

Expected results:

• An interactive e-learning tool and a communication platform on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) developed with providing comprehensive guidance on the legal framework, compliance requirements, environmental and business benefits;
• ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting for SMEs developed to support sustainable business practices, enhance competitiveness and facilitate access to green financing;
• Up to 30 existing companies and start-ups received tailored financial support (up to 600.000$) to expand operations, create new jobs, adopt innovative solutions, and increase green investments;
• Green Tech Hub, a physical and digital space for innovation, prototyping, research, and collaboration in green technologies and circular economy solutions launched;
• Business models for energy plantations and high-value forests developed and implemented, promoting sustainable forest management and generating diversified income streams;
• Two Pre-accelerator Programs engaged over 100 participants, supporting early-stage start-ups in adopting green business solutions and fostering entrepreneurship in the circular economy;
• Analysis and mapping of emerging waste streams in Moldova (textiles, plastics, construction waste, tires, organic waste, etc.) carried out, including cost–benefit assessments, generating a robust evidence base for sustainable waste management strategies;
• Three regional hackathons organized in North, Center, South regions of Moldova to develop innovative, youth-driven solutions for green transition challenges, promoting engagement and creative problem-solving;
• The “Greening SMEs” course revised and digitalized for entrepreneurs with integrated modules on energy efficiency, renewables, ESG, and circular economy practices, eco-innovations;
• The Green Growth Indicators report elaborated with an expanded set of indicators, offering a comprehensive overview of the country’s progress in green development;
• 10 air quality monitorig stations installed across the country;
• 3 Voluntary Waste Collection Centers established in selected waste management zones to strengthen separate collection systems;
• The Road Routes Register launched, together with integrated e-Ticketing and e-GPS systems, enhancing efficiency and transparency in road transport management;
• The Education for Sustainable Development integrated into school curricula. 
   

Accomplishments:

• Over 350 teachers and students were trained about environmental protection and sustainable development;
• Six Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations updated to ensure full alignment with EU requirements and stakeholder recommendations;
• The Donors Environment Coordination Council and Donor Coordination Council for Transport Sector have been operationalized;
• The Interministerial Working Group, established by the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, has been operationalized;
• Supported the screening process within the EU accession framework for Chapter 27, specifically in the sectors of Horizontal Legislation, Climate Change, and Waste Management and Air Quality, ensuring alignment with EU requirements;
• Enhanced the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Environment and the Bureau for European Integration by strengthening their preparedness for the Republic of Moldova - European Union bilateral negotiations on Chapter 27. This was achieved through the design and implementation of negotiation simulations covering Horizontal Legislation, Air Quality, Climate Change, and Waste Management;
• Development of the national framework for the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) by transposition of 12 EMAS Regulations, ensuring compliance with EU environmental standards.