AHK Uruguay2

In recent years, the circular economy has become increasingly important, especially as a tool that proposes solutions to some of the world's most pressing sustainable development challenges.

Considering this, a comparative analysis of the existing packaging return systems in Uruguay was carried out in 2020 as part of the Federal Environment Ministry's Export Initiative Environmental Protection. Their impact on the environment, economy and society was analysed.

This line of work was continued based on the results of the study. A working group was set up to exchange experiences and train environmental managers of the respective departments in Uruguay. The main objective of this group was to promote best practices, establish national and local indicators of performance in waste management and identify common challenges and synergies.

As part of this, various pilot projects were initiated and supported, including home composting and the promotion of refill systems. For the private sector, a training programme was implemented in the form of a distance learning course for around 30 Uruguayan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The main topics were the circular economy, eco-design, economic analyses and the validation and implementation of circular products and business models.

The project concluded with a virtual study trip to German.This included thematic visits, company visits in the relevant sector, meetings with key players and opportunities to exchange ideas with experts in the field.

The project has successfully contributed to promoting the introduction of more sustainable systems. The measures implemented have supported and further strengthened the country's positive development in the area of the circular economy.