From Linear to Circular Economy

Strengthening sustainable and circular economic models in micro, small and medium enterprises, focusing on the use of renewable energy and the optimisation of water resources.

Directly involved: 280 owners and employees, linked to 80 small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) located in the Reserva Biológica Apaneca–Ilamatepec (RBAI), including owners, employees and agricultural producers, from the hotel sector, hostels, restaurants, tourist transportation, coffee shops, agroecological producers, coffee processors, commerce, artisans and local tourist guides. 220 entrepreneurs and university students interested in circular economy, who will visit the 80 companies to learn about the models implemented. Indirectly involved: around 984,000 inhabitants of the Apaneca-Ilamatepec Biosphere Reserve. Other Allies/ participants: Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), the RBAI's Management Committee, the mayors' offices of nine municipalities within the reserve, and the University of El Salvador (UES)

El Salvador faces significant environmental challenges, including climate change impacts, plastic pollution, and the need to transition toward a circular economy. The country has made progress by adopting environmental regulations, a National Plan for Integrated Solid Waste Management, and a law promoting recycling. It also developed a roadmap for harmonizing legislation on waste and circular economy. However, implementation is limited by weak coordination among institutions, low public awareness, insufficient environmental education, and a lack of technical and financial resources. The project aims to support public institutions in defining and implementing circular economy policies and strategies, providing tools, methodologies, and experiences to help overcome these barriers.

• Support 80 SSEs in adopting circular economy practices through assessments, tailored business transformation plans, and sustainable production models
• Promote institutional engagement by facilitating SSE participation in coordination and policy dialogue spaces
• Implement a training program to build the capacities of MSE owners and workers involved in circular economy value chains
• Promote knowledge sharing on waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and renewable energy through experience exchanges and replication of best practices
• Offer a diploma course on Circular Economy and gender perspective, and organize open-door fairs to promote ancestral cultural practices