Since last summer, the EURE partners are busy implementing their Action Plan to bring transformation at local level. Where do they currently stand? Are there already some visible improvements? Alba Iulia Municipality tells us more about the changes that started to appear in Alba Iulia municipality following the EURE Action Plan.
Can you summarise your Action Plan in one or two sentences?
The Action Plan aims to create a comprehensive set of guidelines and recommendations for incorporating circular economy projects or actions into the funding criteria for Priority 3: An Environmentally Friendly Region of the Regional Operational Program for the Centru Region. Additionally, an evaluation grid will be developed to assess these projects.
What have you already implemented?
While the implementation of the Action Plan is still ongoing, the focus is on the creation of the documents containing the recommendations for guidelines on the inclusion of circular economy projects/actions in small and medium-sized cities as eligible for funding. The municipality and the Institute for Research in Circular Economy and Environment „Ernest Lupan” IRCEM have been working diligently to gather insights, research best practices, and analyze the interregional cooperation experiences from the EURE project. This valuable knowledge is being leveraged to develop comprehensive recommendations and guidelines that will effectively promote and support circular economy projects/actions in small and medium-sized cities.
Do you already have some first evaluation? How are the changes brought by the Action Plan welcomed by the local actors?
The presentation of the finalised guidelines and recommendations to the local actors will provide an opportunity to secure their approval and support. This collaborative approach highlights the municipality's dedication to achieving sustainable development and realizing the vision of an environmentally friendly City. Alba Iulia Municipality is committed to engaging the local stakeholders and seeking their input during the process. The municipality recognizes the importance of their support and approval and will actively involve them in shaping and implementing the circular economy projects and actions.
The project is finishing in a few months, do you already know if you will follow-up on the Action Plan? How?
Through the exchange of experience facilitated by the EURE project, Alba Iulia Municipality has actively integrated a section on circular economy into the Integrated Urban Development Strategy. Leveraging the support of external experts, stakeholders, and the project team, this strategic inclusion highlights the municipality's commitment to sustainable development and resource efficiency. Moreover, because of collaborative efforts, the municipality has developed the first Action Plan for Circular Economy, which encompasses the insights and expertise of the external expert and stakeholders involved in the project. The Action Plan is set to be submitted for approval in the City Council in July, reinforcing Alba Iulia's dedication to driving circular economy initiatives.
