SPLIT, NOVEMBER 4 - 6 2024
THE CONCEPT OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY AS A STRATEGY FOR REDUCING WASTE POLLUTION
Gathered experts and stakeholders will exchange ideas and examples of good practice concerning waste management and minimizing environmental pollution. To enable the implementation of the circular economy concept and modern waste treatment technologies, it is necessary to encourage discussion about our individual and collective actions in the context of consumer and other habits, as well as the generating, managing and disposing of waste locally, nationally, and internationally.
The problem of generating large amounts of waste, improper waste management and environmental plastic pollution can be characterized as several of the biggest ecological, but also political problems. The EU, through its legislative framework and the principles of the circular economy, advocates for a resource-efficient and environmentally responsible society, but despite clearly defined principles of sustainable development, there is inconsistency at the national levels among member states, with Croatia standing out in particular. Industrialization, scientific development, urbanization and population growth contribute to excessive production of various types of waste. In addition to plastic being proven to be the most common, single-use packaging and packaging waste contribute rapidly to the omnipresent pollution.
With the aim of reducing the negative impact of plastic on the environment and human health, single-use paper packaging has been presented as an alternative solution to this problem. However, such paper solutions, containing paper or cardboard in combination with other materials and toxic additives, create a barrier to recycling. According to EU data, paper and cardboard are the main packaging waste with about 34 million tons generated between 2010 and 2021.
Despite the recorded growing percentage of separate waste collection as well as its further processing and the establishment of a green and sustainable way of life for individuals across Europe, the level of ecological concern and awareness about the problem of waste generation and disposal is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is necessary to encourage discussion about action and the creation of innovative solutions for applying the principles of the circular economy in the daily lives of all spheres.
MARINE LITTER
Marine litter is one of the world's fastest growing threats to marine and coastal ecosystems with major environmental, cultural, health and economic consequences. The problem of marine waste is increasingly visible and significant in Croatia, and the lack of adequate data from systematic research emphasizes the need for active action.
Experts and stakeholders will discuss effective solutions of the complex marine litter challenge. In order to reduce marine waste pollution, it is necessary to use an intersectoral approach to stimulate a series of changes in society, from the reduction of waste generation in everyday life to the adoption of an adequate legislative framework.
It is believed that plastic, thanks to its durability and wide application, makes up 70 to 80% of the total waste in the Mediterranean area, with an emphasis on microplastics, which are created by the decomposition of plastic material present in the sea. A large amount of plastic represents the greatest danger to the marine environment and human health and it enters the sea because of human activities on land and at sea. In addition to marine litter being a direct consequence of human activities, significant deficiencies and failures in the context of waste management contribute to the state of coastal pollution. It is estimated that around 80% of waste reaches the sea from the land, through various land activities, for example illegal landfills, but also certain touristic and economic activities. In addition, about 20% of waste ends up in the sea as a result of irresponsible activities in maritime transport and fishing.
Marine litter is not an environmental problem that can only be solved by law enforcement, beach cleaning and technical solutions. It is a cultural problem and significant efforts are needed to change the behavior of stakeholders with an emphasis on an intersectoral approach, that is, the inclusion of all sectors and interests.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AS A PART OF FORMALN EDUCATION SYSTEM
Our goal is to improve understanding of the connection between human activities, the environment and sustainable development. By including these topics in the formal education system and educating the new generations at the earliest, we intend to encourage positive changes in everyday life.
Education must be directed towards children and young people who will soon be the main actors in the protection and preservation of nature and the environment. Climate change, loss of biological diversity, environmental pollution and other environmental problems are becoming more visible, therefore it is necessary to transfer knowledge, skills and experiences to in the form of formal and informal education.
Schools and faculties, with the support of non-governmental organizations and other institutions, play a key role in the process of introducing environmental topics into the teaching curriculum. By enriching the teaching bases, we will contribute to the creation of educated, environmentally aware and proactive future generations who, empowered with the skills to preserve the environment, will tackle global environmental challenges.
ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT IN THE FIELD OF NATURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
The goal of this thematic unit is to raise awareness and encourage youth engagement in environmental protection through education and promotion of environmentally responsible behavior. Our goal is to encourage the active participation of citizens in the preservation and restoration of nature and the networking of educational institutions with civil society organizations.
During formal education, young people do not acquire sufficient knowledge in the field of environmental protection and sustainable development, which consequently affects their competitiveness on the labor market and has a negative impact on the state of the environment. In the modern world of growing awareness of climate change, loss of biodiversity and other environmental challenges we face, this topic takes on exceptional importance.
Young people can gain experiential knowledge and practice, encouraging engagement and starting initiatives by volunteering and getting to know the work of the informal sector. Service learning and international volunteering encourage the application of theoretical knowledge in environmental protection, the development of entrepreneurial skills and strengthen leadership abilities to initiate positive changes. Active engagement of all stakeholders, with a focus on youth, is key to promoting sustainable practices and ensuring a healthier future for all.
