Driving sustainability, cross-border partnerships and European funding in circular economy reporting

Abstract

This article examines Romania as a comparative case to explore the impact of European Union (EU) funding and cross-border partnerships on enhancing circular economy (CE) practices in Moldova. As an EU member state, Romania receives significant CE funding, whereas Moldova’s access is limited by its non-EU status. This funding disparity impacts Moldovan companies ’CE reporting and transparency, limiting their adoption of sustainability practices. In the Republic of Moldova, there was a 50% increase in absorption, while in Romania, it was 28%. This study concludes by offering policy recommendations to close this funding gap, enhancing Moldova’s integration into EU-led CE initiatives.