Interreg NEXT PL-UA 2021-2027

Between 2021 and 2023, more than 20 million tons of waste were generated in the Programme area. Recycling rates in the border regions remain low – around 22% in Polish border regions and an estimated 3–8% in Ukrainian regions, significantly below the EU average of approximately 45%. Public participation in environmental friendly activities, such as waste segregation and reuse, is still limited, highlighting the need to strengthen educational efforts and awareness-raising campaigns. Differences between regions on both sides of the border further emphasize the need for coordinated action.

The project addresses these shared challenges faced by Poland and Ukraine in waste management and the transition to a circular economy. Its objective is to increase the engagement of residents and institutions in sustainable waste management through cross-border cooperation, raising environmental awareness, and implementing practical solutions for waste reduction, segregation, and reuse.

As part of the project, a Small Projects Fund will be implemented to support local initiatives, such as awareness campaigns, training, pilot activities, and the development of selective waste collection infrastructure. Support will be available, among others, to local authorities, non-governmental organizations, schools, universities, and municipal entities. A key component of the project will also be the creation of a network for cooperation and experience exchange between partners from Poland and Ukraine.

The project will contribute to increasing the involvement of local communities, improving the efficiency of waste management systems, and promoting the dissemination and transfer of good practices, including solutions aligned with EU standards, through cross-border cooperation.