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Description
The transition to a circular economy is an international challenge. Globally, we are faced with limited natural resources and a growing population. According to the United Nations (UN), global material use has tripled in the last four decades (United Nations, 2016). The demand for raw materials will increase further in the coming years due to global population growth and the development of new technologies that require specific raw materials. This will exacerbate environmental, climate-related, and other sustainability issues.
The circular economy has become a development priority also at European level, being part of the industrial strategy of European countries. In this sense, any business project that is going to start its activity from the beginning of 2023 will be obliged to have a detailed "circular economy" component.
According to the "National Strategy on the Circular Economy" (approved by the Romanian Government on 22 September 2022) "the transition from a linear to a circular economic model is a complex and lengthy process, and Romania is still at the beginning".
Also, according to statistics issued by the Circular Economy Monitoring Framework, Romania is among the worst-performing European Union (EU) countries in terms of resource productivity, waste generation as a share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), waste treatment and use of recycled materials in the economy.
A study on the transition level from linear to a circular economy in Europe was published in 2021. This research shows that Romania is among the countries where progress towards the circular economy is very slow.
Taking into account the aspects presented above, by approaching this funding the Romanian University in collaboration with the Østfold University College proposes to approach mobilities for academic staff and students (level of study Bachelor, Master or PhD) on the topic of "Circular Economy". The type and duration of mobility are detailed in the Bilateral Agreement.
Summary of project results
The "Mobility for students and staff on circular economy" project implemented by "Vasile Alecsandri" University of Bacau (UBc) in partnership with Østfold University College (HIOF), funded through the EEA, was necessary to address the major challenges related to the transition to a circular economy. In a world where resources are increasingly scarce and environmental impact is becoming a central concern, education and training in the circular economy is essential. The project aimed to improve the knowledge and skills of both teachers and students to implement the principles of the circular economy in various fields of activity.
The project implemented various activities: one teaching mobility (STA) for teachers, seven training mobilities (STT) for academic staff and three study mobilities (SMS) for students. These activities included workshops, training sessions and exchanges of good practice between universities. An important product of the project was the development of an improved curriculum for circular economy-related courses and the creation of innovative teaching materials and educational resources. These activities have been key to raising awareness and knowledge of the circular economy among both university staff and students
The main outcomes of the project include the training and education of 11 university staff and 3 students in the field of circular economy. They acquired knowledge and skills that they applied in their academic and professional activities, thus contributing to the promotion and implementation of circular economy practices in various contexts. The project also facilitated international collaboration between partner institutions, creating a network for the exchange of knowledge and best practices. The results were positive and without significant unintended consequences, contributing to the sustainable development of education and training in the field of circular economy.
The importance of the project lies in its long-term impact on circular economy education and training. By increasing the skills and knowledge of university staff and students, the project contributes to preparing the next generation of professionals capable of implementing and promoting the principles of the circular economy. This will lead to a more efficient use of resources, waste reduction and environmental protection, thus having a positive impact on society and the economy as a whole.
Summary of bilateral results
The presence of HIOF as a donor project partner has brought significant benefits. The bilateral collaboration allowed access to the expertise and best practices of an institution with experience in the field of circular economy, thus improving the quality of the project activities and results.The main difference brought by the partnership was the transfer of knowledge and expertise. The HIOF provided a framework for the exchange of ideas and innovative methodologies, leading to improved skills of both teaching staff and students. The presence of an international partner also facilitated access to modern educational resources and contributed to the development of a curriculum adapted to the current needs of the labour market.Main outcomes at bilateral level include:1. Improved knowledge and understanding: Collaboration has led to a deeper understanding of the principles of the circular economy. Staff and students from both institutions have benefited from new perspectives and innovative approaches, which has enriched learning and teaching.2. Common results: The project generated high quality educational resources and teaching materials used in both institutions. These include guides, case studies and course modules reflecting best practice in the circular economy. 3.Wider effects: The partnership created a network of collaboration that went beyond the project boundaries. Exchanges of experience and good practice were shared with other institutions and organisations, amplifying the impact of the project and promoting the circular economy on a wider scale.In terms of plans for further bilateral collaboration, there is a shared interest in developing future projects. These could include joint research projects, new mobility programmes for students and staff, and the organisation of international conferences and workshops.