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THE COOPERATIVE AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY: EMBRACING COLLABORATION TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

Larisa ȘAVGA, Prof., PhD
Trade Co-operative University of Moldova,
“Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Romania
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Todor IVANOV
European Community of Consumer Co-operatives, Brussels, Belgium
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Rodica PERCIUN, Assoc. prof., PhD
National Institute for Economic Research, AESM
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Victoria IORDACHI, Assoc. prof., PhD
National Institute for Economic Research, AESM
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.59642/JRTMED.1.2023.01
Universal Decimal Classification: 334.73
JEL Classification: Q01, Q56, P13

Abstract

The article investigates how cooperatives and the circular economy complement each other, highlighting their relevance in building a sustainable future. By integrating circular economy principles into cooperatives, sustainable resource management and opportunities for development are fostered. Cooperatives, with their collaborative nature and focus on member interests, provide an ideal framework for implementing circular economy practices. They promote efficient resource collection, reuse, and recycling, reducing environmental impact and dependence on finite resources. Collaboration among cooperative members, local communities, and other stakeholders facilitates knowledge exchange and resource sharing, vital for circular economy implementation. The article also highlights key aspects of this collaborative approach. The collaboration between the members of the cooperative, the local community and other interested entities contributes to the exchange of knowledge, experiences and resources necessary for the implementation of the circular economy. By joining forces, these key participants can develop innovative initiatives and projects that deliver economic, social and environmental benefits. Finally, the authors emphasize the importance of promoting and supporting cooperatives within the circular economy model. By promotion of collaboration and creation of an enabling environment for the development of circular economy-oriented cooperatives, a sustainable future can be constructed, where resources are managed efficiently, waste is minimized, and communities develop in a sustainable way.

Keywords: cooperative, circular economy, sustainability, Sustainable Development Goals, recycling, environmental challenges