As part of the “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” project, the companies “Steel Impex” in Krnješevci and “ArTech Inženjering” in Dobanovci are recycling automotive waste and construction textiles. Emanuele Giaufret, the head of the EU Delegation, emphasized the importance of developing a circular economy alongside environmental protection, which aligns with EU goals.
Giaufret highlighted that these companies have acquired state-of-the-art recycling equipment funded by the EU. He commended their capacity for innovation and noted that the EU’s eight million euro contribution, combined with the companies’ own investments, has significantly improved their operations. “This initiative promotes a circular economy that prioritizes environmental care, one of the EU’s key objectives. Sustainable company growth benefits us all,” he said.
Yakup Beris, the UNDP’s permanent representative in Serbia, pointed out that investing in such equipment is crucial for emphasizing circularity in the local economy. He noted that repurposing waste leads to a cleaner environment and fosters local economic development by reducing toxins.
“Steel Impex” has implemented an air filtration system to enhance its recycling processes, enabling it to recycle 80 to 90 percent of a vehicle. Meanwhile, “ArTech Inženjering” has begun producing a new retex material from textile remnants, suitable for interior decoration and insulation.
Beris also mentioned that 66 innovations have received financial support from the EU, Switzerland and the Serbian Government, totaling 25 million USD to aid their practical implementation.
