GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B IPA Adriatic-Ionian

Date of latest update: 2026-01-29

Description

Description (EN):

GPP2ADRION aims to promote the adoption of Green Public Procurement (GPP) in the EUSAIR regions to overcome the barriers that hamper the transition towards circular economy. The European Commission (EC), in its guidance “Public procurement for a circular economy” (2017), states that the adoption of GPP, a process whereby public authorities seek to procure goods, services and works with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle, is needed to achieve EU environmental and circular economy (CE) targets. With a focus on EUSAIR regions, the EC according to the outcomes of “EUSAIR bringing the Green Deal to the region”, stated that to leverage the adoption of GPP, capacity building programs are needed specifically for non-EU-Countries. Therefore, the project will develop macro-regional solutions that will provide a common knowledge base within EUSAIR countries and boost the demand and offer of CE products and services. These can be achieved only through a transnational approach that will align different countries on the same GPP level of knowledge. The project will start from the definition of an effective capacity building package for the qualifications of GPP Ambassadors (regional experts on the topic), the creation of GPP regional Contact Points (to support Public Bodies and Policy Makers, including SMES in implementing GPP procedures) and a Transnational Network that will be established from PPs that will act as the overall guidance to further boost the application of GPP for CE on a common EUSAIR ground. On the annual EUSAIR Forum the Transnational Network will be launched and opened to Public Bodies and Policy Makers of the ADRION countries. This will set the ground for the adoption of a transnational plan for the diffusion of GPP in Public Bodies and Policy Makers. Public bodies and Policy Makers will directly benefit from project outcomes and will create a higher demand for circular economy products and services. Also, SMEs will benefit by implementing GPP criteria to innovate their offer of product and services.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During this first reporting period, the activities related to A1.1 within Work Package 1 were carried out. 2 reports were prepared: (1)Analysis of EU GPP Criteria: Opportunities and Challenges for Circular Economy; (2) Stakeholder Interview Package, which includes the following documents: (a) a stakeholder list, (b) guidelines and instructions for partners on stakeholder mapping, (c) the questionnaire for stakeholder interviews, (d) the invitation to participate, and (e) the interview report template. Regarding stakeholder mapping, all partners took responsibility for creating a comprehensive map of key stakeholders involved in GPP. These stakeholders were organized within the stakeholder list and directly contacted. Interviews were conducted using the predefined questionnaire, focusing on investigating the role of GPP as a tool, its current state, a benchmark analysis, a gap analysis, and whether GPP serves as a driver for the circular economy. The information gathered during the interviews and through the questionnaire was analyzed and integrated into the output report. No deliverables were due in period 1. During the first 2 reporting periods, the GPP2ADRION project made remarkable progress, focusing on the successful implementation of WP1. The partnership concentrated its efforts on building a solid analytical foundation to support future actions aimed at promoting Green Public Procurement (GPP) and Circular Public Procurement (CPP) in the Adriatic–Ionian area. This work focused on establishing a comprehensive baseline and conducting a diagnostic assessment of public procurement systems across the participating countries. The analysis provided an in-depth understanding of the current state of play, identifying both existing strengths and critical gaps that limit the adoption of GPP and CPP principles in practice. Specific objectives reached and main outputs delivered The completion of Activities 1.1 and 1.2 led to the delivery of 2 key reports that serve as the cornerstone for the project’s future steps: D1.1.1 Benchmark Analysis Report: providing a “State of the Art” overview of procurement practices in relation to circular economy principles across all partner regions. D1.1.2 Gap Analysis Report: identifying barriers and gaps that hinder the implementation of GPP and CPP and outlining areas requiring targeted capacity-building actions. Additionally, within A1.5, the partnership finalized D1.5.2 Set of Initial Communication Tools, which includes the project brochure, social media channels, and digital media kit. These tools are essential for ensuring effective communication and engagement with stakeholders from the very beginning of the project. The methodology used for these analyses was coordinated by the LP and PP5 (WP1 Leader), ensuring a coherent and harmonized approach across all partner countries. The process included: .Stakeholder mapping: identification and classification of over 190 relevant actors in the field of GPP and CPP, who will form the backbone of the project’s future transnational network. .Qualitative data collection: completion of 63 interviews with public authorities, procurement experts, and business representatives, producing valuable insights on local challenges and opportunities. .Quantitative data collection: launch of an online survey addressed to all mapped stakeholders to gather data on existing barriers, market needs, and training priorities. The analysis carried out under WP1 provided a strong evidence-based understanding of GPP implementation across the region. Common challenges emerged, such as insufficient awareness of GPP principles, limited technical expertise among public officers, lack of coordination mechanisms, and gaps in monitoring and evaluation. At the same time, the study revealed encouraging signals — growing political commitment, successful pilot experiences, and an increasing interest from both public and private actors in adopting greener procurement models. These findings now represent a solid baseline for designing the next project phases, particularly the capacity-building package (A1.3) and the definition of national Contact Point services (A1.4), which will support long-term institutional cooperation and knowledge sharing. Added value of transnational cooperation. The period also demonstrated the added value of working transnationally. The project partners collaborated under a coordinated framework that ensured consistency, comparability, and mutual learning. PP5, as WP1 Leader, played a key role in ensuring methodological coherence and timely delivery of outputs. A major milestone was the organization of the Kick off meeting in Padua (12th-13th September 2024), hosted by the LP and the 2nd Project Meeting in Crete, Greece (4–5 May 2025), hosted by the Region of Western Greece. This second meeting was strategically held back-to-back with the 10th EUSAIR Annual Forum (6–7 May 2025), allowing the consortium to present the project to a broader audience, promote regional cooperation, and explore synergies with complementary initiatives such as ProcuraMED, which focuses on green and innovative procurement. Communication activities were also reinforced. UNIPD, with the support of UniSMART and the PP2, implemented the social media plan and launched the project’s official website, ensuring timely visibility, accessibility of materials, and engagement with relevant target groups. In summary, during this reporting period the GPP2ADRION project established a robust analytical framework, created a valuable transnational stakeholder network, and strengthened cooperation among regions and institutions of the Adriatic–Ionian area. The shared methodology, exchange of knowledge, and joint commitment of partners have proven essential to identify common challenges and design collective solutions for greener and more circular public procurement in the region. The achievements of WP1 now provide a solid basis for the upcoming capacity-building and networking phases, marking a key step toward more sustainable procurement practices across the ADRION area.

Project outputs: Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion(EN)
Testing the Service Plan in 4 Contact Points(EN)
Establishment of 4 Contact Points for the long-term provision of the related Service Plan(EN)
Transnational Plan for GPP adoption (EN)

Thematic information

SME and entrepreneurship

Priority: (VI-B_IPA-A_2) Supporting a greener and climate resilient Adriatic-Ionian region

Priority specific objective: RSO2.6. Promoting the transition to a circular and resource efficient economy

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 071 Promoting the use of recycled materials as raw materials

Partners (10)

Lead Partner: Università di Padova

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999995602

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 00742430283

Department: CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT - ICEA

Address: Via VIII Febbraio, 35122 Padova, Italy

Department address: Via Marzolo , 35131 Padova, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.unipd.it

Total budget: EUR 306 700.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 260 695.17

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 46 005.03

Contractors:

Name: Terrazza Carducci
VAT registration or tax identification number: 03901860282

Lead Partner: Università degli Studi di Padova

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999995602

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 00742430283

Department: CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT - ICEA

Address: Via VIII Febbraio, 35122 Padova, Italy

Department address: Via Marzolo , 35131 Padova, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.unipd.it

Total budget: EUR 306 700.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 260 695.17

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 46 005.03

Ministarstvo ekonomskog razvoja i turizma

Name: Ministarstvo ekonomskog razvoja i turizma

Department: Directorate for Improvement of Competitiveness

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 998525858

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 11068715

Address: Rimski Trg, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: https://www.gov.me/mek

Total budget: EUR 57 642.80

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 48 996.38

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 8 646.42

Бизнис & Иновејшн Сентр ДОО

Name: Бизнис & Иновејшн Сентр ДОО

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 924706918

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4028015527079

Address: Ilindenska , 1200 Tetovo, North Macedonia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://bic.seeu.edu.mk/

Total budget: EUR 105 752.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 89 889.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 862.80

Privredna Gospodarska komora Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine

Name: Privredna Gospodarska komora Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine

Department: Center for international cooperation with EU funds

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 20000554007

Address: Branislava Đurđeva , 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://kfbih.com/

Total budget: EUR 100 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 85 170.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 030.00

Institut društvenih nauka

Name: Institut društvenih nauka

Department: Centre for economic research

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 954266407

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 100043856

Address: Kraljice Natalije, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Department address: Kraljice Natalije, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.idn.org.rs

Total budget: EUR 106 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 90 525.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 975.00

Circular Change, Inštitut za krožno gospodarstvo

Name: Circular Change, Inštitut za krožno gospodarstvo

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI97735817

Address: Gestrinova ulica , 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.circularchange.com

Total budget: EUR 106 545.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 90 563.67

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 981.83

Περιφέρεια Δυτικής Ελλάδας

Name: Περιφέρεια Δυτικής Ελλάδας

Department: Directorate of Environment and Spatial Planning

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 992665991

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 997824337

Address: New National Road , 26441 Patras, Greece

Department address: Papadiamanti, 26443 Patras, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://www.pde.gov.gr/gr/index.php

Total budget: EUR 99 524.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 84 595.40

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 14 928.60

Privredna komora Crne Gore

Name: Privredna komora Crne Gore

Department: Project Department

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 953037708

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 02019574

Address: Novaka Miloševa, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://komora.me/

Total budget: EUR 151 896.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 129 111.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 22 784.40

Forum delle Camere di Commercio dell’Adriatico e dello Ionio

Name: Forum delle Camere di Commercio dell’Adriatico e dello Ionio

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950414343

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 93096320424 | Italian Fiscal Code (EN)

Address: Largo XXIV Maggio, 60121 Ancona, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://forumaic.org

Total budget: EUR 144 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 122 825.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 21 675.00

Contractors:

Name: Dott. Giovanni Copello
VAT registration or tax identification number: 01050580115

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Ministry of economic development and tourism

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Business & Innovation Center

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Chamber of Economy of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Institute of Social Sciences

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Circular Change, Institute for circular economy

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Region of Western Greece

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

CHAMBER OF ECONOMY OF MONTENEGRO

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

Forum of the Adriatic and Ionian Chambers of Commerce

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

University of Padua

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Partners and Projects info

University of Padua

GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

Project acronym: GPP2ADRION

Project ID: IPA-ADRION00457

Project start date: 2024-09-01

Project end date: 2027-08-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

LIFE- Programme for Environment and Climate Action- Circular Economy and Quality of Life- (LIFE-2023-SAP-ENV-GOV) (EN) | The project can potentially create synergies with LIFE projects. The aim of the call is to facilitate the transition toward a sustainable, circular, toxic-free, energy-efficient/climate-resilient economy and toward a toxic-free environment as well as to protect, restore and improve the quality of the environment. The programme foresees that projects financed will implement activities in support of public administrations’ decision-making and voluntary approaches; Environmental compliance assurance and access to justice; and Behavioural change and awareness-raising initiatives. (EN), HORIZON CALLS 2023-2024 (EN) | The project should create synergies with the New European Bauhaus initiative, if applicable, and integrate its core values that are in line with the programme specific objectives.
HORIZON-CL4-2023-HUMAN-01-53- Localised and Urban Manufacturing, supporting creativity and the New European Bauhaus (RIA using FSTP). HORIZON-MISS-2021-CIT-01- Project ID 101056946- Creating Actionable Futures. It places the transition to climate neutrality at the heart of urban stakeholders also through Climate City Contracts that foresee investments that strategically mobilise and organise public resources and addresses how to attract private capital for funding and financing cities' pathways to climate neutrality.
HORIZON-CL6-2024-CLIMATE-01-5- Climate-smart use of wood in the construction sector to support the New European Bauhaus. There is a need for making the construction sector more renewable and circular, which includes the use of currently underused timber such as hardwoods, damaged wood and post-consumer wood, while including circularity as part of a broader system and design loop.
HORIZON-CL2-2024-HERITAGE-01-01- New European Bauhaus – Innovative solutions for greener and fairer ways of life through arts and culture, architecture and design for all. Proposals should test, demonstrate and refine innovative solutions to achieve strategic investments in cultural heritage and the CCIs in the spirit of the New European Bauhaus initiative. HORIZON-CL6-2024-BIODIV-02-2-two-stage- Demonstrating the potential of Nature-based Solutions and the New European Bauhaus to contribute to sustainable, inclusive and resilient living spaces and communities. Projects under this call will integrate social, cultural, digital and nature-based innovation in the design, development and governance of public space. GPP can play a central role in these topics. (EN), Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA)
LP: NALED- National Alliance for Local Economic Development (RS) (EN) | In Serbia, the project will create synergies with two projects: “Effective public procurement in the service of economic growth”, a two-year project to improve the efficiency and transparency of public procurement in Serbia; and "Public procurement and good management for greater competitiveness" is a one-and-a-half-year project that represents the extension of the previous above-mentioned project.
Expected project results are: Increasing the competitiveness and improve the quality of procured goods and services (value for money in public procurement), improving the business environment through the growth of the SME sector, but also transparency, efficiency and quality of administration services, improving the quality of dialogue and the capacity of relevant key actors to meaningfully participate in inclusive dialogue.
(EN), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID/Serbia)
Improving Public Procurement project (EN) | The Project would support the public procurement process in its entirety, from the inception of the procurement actions by the government institutions or public companies, through monitoring the implementation, to oversight and judicial prosecutions. This project could include training on the new e-procurement system, capacity development for the Public Procurement Office, judiciary, State Audit Institution, and other key stakeholders involved in public procurement. The project could also provide support to the implementation of the new Law on Public Procurement and public procurement policies at the local government level.
Specific objective of the action is to enhance the capacities of public procurement staff at all levels including local-self government as well as to support further improvement of electronic public procurement.
(EN), National IPA Programme for the Republic of Serbia under IPA 2021 (EN) | The action will be focused on addition new modules, tools and functionalities on Public Procurement Portal, to organise trainings for further professionalisation and improvement of knowledge of all economic operators in Public Procurement system, and to develop practical tools which will facilitate application of Law on Public Procurement, and contribute to prevention and fighting against corruption and irregularities in public procurement system.
Specific objective of the action is to enhance the capacities of public procurement staff at all levels including local-self government as well as to support further improvement of electronic public procurement.
(EN), “STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING THE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT SYSTEM IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA FOR THE PERIOD 2022-2026” (EN) | This is a national strategy whose main aim is to develop a system appropriate to current requirements ("green" procurement, socially responsible procurement, innovative procurement, support for SMEs). This is in line with GPP2ADRION’s aim and the project can help in supporting the achievement of this aim. (EN), LIFE CARE4Climate (EN) | The LIFE project CARE4CLIMATE is an initiative aimed at tackling climate change and promoting sustainability. It focuses on implementing innovative solutions, raising awareness, and engaging stakeholders to foster a low-carbon and resilient future. Among its areas of action it includes GPP. CC (PP4) is collaborating with the Ministry of Environment of Slovenia in such a project. (EN), Specific data were analysed and compared within the Project - Tender "EUSAIR Bringing the Green Deal to the Region"
DR REGIO
PP1- UNIPD
PP2- FORUM AIC
(EN) | EU Regulations and National Action Plans on GPP and specific data were analysed and compared within the Project - Tender "EUSAIR Bringing the Green Deal to the Region" promoted and financed by DG Regio and implemented by the Forum AIC (PP2) in cooperation with UNIPD (PP1) and the agency t33. The project aimed to incentivize EUSAIR participating countries and their representatives to act more sustainably and increase their environmental awareness in their working and daily life, also through promoting the adoption of GPP practices. Precisely thanks to the results of this project - which took into account a sample of stakeholders - the need to train the AI Area's policy makers on GPP issues emerged. (EN), Circular Economy Roadmap of Kosovo
PP5- CC
2022- ongoing (EN) | Circular Change in partnership with Deloitte is currently developing this document for UNDP in order to identify the opportunities for the development
of the circular economy in the country. The project aims at developing guidelines for policymakers in
order to address these future circular challenges. (EN), Circular Economy Roadmap of Montenegro
PP5- CC
2021-2022 (EN) | Circular Change in partnership with Deloitte developed
this document for UNDP and the Chamber of Commerce in order to identify the opportunities for the development of the circular economy in the country. The project aimed at developing guidelines for policymakers in order to address these future circular challenges. The project included a circular economy Action Plan, a Monitoring Plan and a Communication Plan. (EN), Ljubljana circular city 2045 - Strategic document co-creation
PP5- CC
2020-2021 (EN) | The aim of the document is to support Ljubljana on the path of circular transformation by involving the
widest range of stakeholders, mapping the existing practices, innovation potentials and concrete
initiatives. More than 100 different stakeholders were invited to the preparation process in the form of participation in workshops, interviews, or written initiatives, contributed their proposals and co-created the proposed emerging value chains. (EN), Interreg BLUEFASMA Montenegro
2020
PP5- CC (EN) |
Circular Change co-created a report together with the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro, as part of the creation of the National Circular Economy Roadmap. The BLUEfasma project plays a significant role in enabling different stakeholders to start their transformational journey towards a circular economy, bringing several benefits – from more efficient use of local resources, healthier aquatic ecosystems, and more resilient economies, to the creation of more added value at the local level and new jobs. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 179 260.50

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 002 371.42

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 85.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Benchmark Analysis Report
Gap Analysis Report
Capacity Building Training Package
Contact Point Service Package
Communication Strategy
Deliverable title: Set of initial communication tool
Capacity Building Pilot Action report
Transnational Network Package
Contact Point Pilot Application Activity report
Transnational Network Pilot Application Activity report
Communication updates
GPP procedures pilot application report
Training report
Final Project Publication
Transnational Plan
Dissemination of the results/outputs on the A3.1

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion GPP2ADRION closely aligns with EUSAIR Pillar 2- Environmental Quality, addressing the growing concerns of climate change and its impacts on products and processes’ competitiveness within the EU. The project's focus of fostering the application of GPP in the ADRION countries, whose area entirely corresponds to the EUSAIR, is highly relevant. EUSAIR and GPP2ADRION share a common vision of transitioning from a linear production system towards a more sustainable and circular one in all the sectors. The project plays a central role by strengthening skills and knowledge of key implementers and thus also supporting the implementation of the EUSAIR Flagship projects, related to Pillars 1 and 4, which foresee the development of novel eco-friendly end products, turning waste into product. The project aims to establish a network for knowledge and best practices exchange to reduce GPP compliance difficulties and implementation costs, and to define and adopt new plans for the consolidation of standardised procedures within the ADRION area. This allows to overcome market barriers generated by different regulations, especially supporting SMEs that can thus enhance the supply chain, facilitating the circulation of green products and services across borders. This is also in line with EUSAIR blue economy vision, which encompasses sectors such as construction and energy. EUSAIR is conducting a test on its stakeholders’ meetings organisation, applying GPP and generating a multiplier effect within the PAs involved, leading to a substantial contribution to the achievement of EU environmental targets in the macroregional area. This is also in line with what should be the 5th-Social Pillar, in the new revised EUSAIR Action Plan that supports a change in mindset and behaviours. PP2, which is one of the main stakeholders of civil society officially recognized in the EUSAIR Strategy and also thanks to the involvement of the APs UniAdrion and FAIC can definitely contribute to EUSAIR objectives
EuropeanGreenDeal The EU Green Deal is the EU’s main new growth strategy to transition the EU economy to a sustainable economic model. It presents a transformational opportunity like no other in history: it is a commitment to remake Europe’s economy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, bringing to a cleaner environment, more affordable energy, smarter transport, new jobs and an overall better quality of life. Among the main elements of the green deal the use of “green public procurement” is a priority. Within the green deal it is recognized that GPP can boost the demand for better performing products with reduce environmental impacts if compared to market average. Aa such GPP can be considered the input for companies in developing new products and also a best practice to make the big public more sensitive to the importance on sustainable consumption. As regards GPP2ADRION will play a role in this process by speeding and facilitating the green transition on the project area by promoting GPP. This is in line with the Circular Economy Strategies of IT, EL, ME and RS address green and innovative public procurement among their narratives and actions, promote: the use of short supply chains in the implementation of projects activities; awareness raising of partners, beneficiaries and target groups on sustainability issues; activities with limited use of energy and natural resources. GPP2ADRION will promote sustainability and therefore the implementation of the Green Deal by influencing Public Bodies in their purchasing decisions, considering environmental criteria and lifecycle impacts when procuring goods, services, or works. By integrating green criteria into public procurement processes, such as favouring products with lower carbon emissions or higher energy efficiency, public authorities can contribute to reducing GHG emissions, preserving natural resources, and fostering the development of innovative green technologies
Other The project contributes to the Territorial Agenda 2030 that states that the EU requires policy responses with a strong territorial dimension and coordinated approaches acknowledging and using the diversity and specificities of places. The project hits the point on circular economy as an important objective for a carbon/climate-neutral economy, promoting a place-based circular and carbon/climate-neutral model with a territorial dimension. The project contributes to reaching the objectives of a balanced Europe through: encouraging neighbourhoods, communities, municipalities, counties, regions and Member States to cooperate on responses to global societal challenges and improving working, living and business conditions in all places as well as strengthening socio-economic prosperity, and innovation capacity. Thanks to its multilevel and multi actors approach, the project invites policy makers from all levels to promote polycentric development models that offer a role for all places. It takes action to encourage decision makers at all governance levels to unleash the unique potential of territories with specific geographies and adequately address the constraints of these areas through integrated and cooperative approaches. Besides, it will serve decision makers in cities and towns of all sizes to apply an integrated multilevel governance approach and to strengthen cooperation on long-term place-based strategies and address sustainable functional links between neighbouring areas.
Other European Union Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) promotes cooperation and sustainable development in the Danube River Basin. Spanning across 14 countries, the strategy aims to address common challenges and utilise the region's potential by fostering collaboration in various sectors.
The EUSDR focuses on 4 pillars: connectivity (transport, energy, digitization), environmental protection, social inclusion, and economic development. Environmental protection plays a crucial role in the strategy, aiming to safeguard the Danube River and its ecosystem. Measures include promoting sustainable water management, preserving biodiversity, and addressing environmental risks such as pollution and climate change. Social inclusion is another vital aspect, aiming to reduce disparities and enhance social cohesion within the Danube region. The strategy seeks to promote education, employment, healthcare, and cultural exchanges, ensuring that all communities have equal opportunities for growth and development.
Economic development is a key driver of the EUSDR, aiming to unlock the region's economic potential and promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. Emphasis is placed on fostering a favourable business environment, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and facilitating cross-border trade and cooperation.
The project can significantly contribute to all the 4 pillars of the EUSDR. Overall, the European Strategy for the Danube Region represents a coordinated effort by the EU and its member states to promote sustainable development, improve living conditions, and strengthen cooperation in the diverse and dynamic Danube River Basin.
Other GPP2ADRION promotes cooperation and sustainable development within the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP), especially as regards environmental sustainability. The AR is known for its rich natural heritage and biodiversity, but it faces challenges such as climate change and the sustainable use of resources. By integrating green criteria into public procurement processes, the project contributes to EUSALP objectives of preserving the environment and promoting sustainable land use. It encourages the procurement of eco-friendly products, services, and technologies, which reduce ecological footprint and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The project also addresses the Innovation Pillar by prioritising the procurement of innovative and sustainable solutions, stimulating the development of green industries, and supporting the growth of SMEs in the AR. This aligns with EUSALP's goal of enhancing competitiveness and innovation capacity, as well as promoting entrepreneurship and research.
The project also contributes to EUSALP focus on mobility and connectivity. Sustainable and multimodal transport systems are crucial for the AR, considering its geography and the importance of tourism. By promoting the procurement of low-emission vehicles, energy-efficient infrastructure, and sustainable mobility services, the project can help improve accessibility and connectivity in the region. This can contribute to the EUSALP objective of enhancing mobility and facilitating cross-border connections, ultimately benefiting the residents and visitors of the AR.
Moreover, the project supports the quality-of-life pillar of EUSALP. By promoting sustainable tourism practices and the preservation of cultural heritage, the project contributes to creating attractive and vibrant Alpine communities. Sustainable procurement practices can also ensure the availability of safe and high-quality goods and services, which improve the overall well-being of residents in the region.
Other The Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the United Nations in 2015, provides a comprehensive framework for addressing the world's most pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. It consists of 17 interconnected SDGs, which aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. The SDGs cover a wide range of areas, including poverty eradication, health and well-being, quality education, clean energy, sustainable cities, responsible consumption and production, and climate action, among others.
GPP2ADRION aligns with the SDGs in several ways and contributes to the following SDGs:
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. By integrating environmental and social criteria into public procurement processes, GPP helps reduce the environmental impact of goods and services, promotes the use of sustainable materials, and encourages the adoption of circular economy principles. These actions contribute to SDG 12 targets, such as achieving sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources and substantially reducing waste generation.
SDG 13: Climate Action. By prioritising the procurement of green and low-carbon products, GPP contributes to reducing GHG emissions and mitigating climate change impacts. GPP can also stimulate the market for innovative and eco-friendly technologies, fostering the transition to a low-carbon economy. These efforts include integrating climate change measures into national policies and promoting mechanisms for raising climate finance.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Collaboration between public administrations, private sector entities, civil society organisations, and international stakeholders is crucial for advancing sustainable development. GPP initiatives involve engaging various actors in the supply chain, promoting knowledge exchange, and fostering cooperation underlying the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships to achieve the SDGs.
Other The Effort Sharing Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2018/842) and the Regulation (EU) 2013/525 set the basis for the ADRION’s area’s GHG emissions targets of 2030 and 2050, respectively. The targets are identified assuming the full implementation of existing EU climate, energy, transport, and energy policies. For climate, this includes the revised ETS Directive, that regulates the carbon credits market, the Effort Sharing Regulation, and the LULUCF (Land use, land-use change and forestry) Regulation, and it assumes the achievement of the target of at least 40% GHG reductions by 2030. For energy, it includes the Energy Efficiency Directive and the Renewable Energy Directive.
For the non EU Member States, a different approach has been used when it comes to 2030. National plans setting targets for 2030 have been taken into account:
· Albania has a target of -11.5% compared to 2016 emissions, “ALBANIA REVISED NDC” (2021);
· Bosnia and Herzegovina has a target of -33.2% compared to 1990 emissions, “NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (NDC)” (2021);
· Montenegro has a target of at least -35% compared to 1990 emissions, “Updated NDC for Montenegro” (2021);
· North Macedonia has a target of -51% compared to 1990 emissions, “Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution” (2021);
· Serbia has a target of -9.8% compared to 1990 emissions, “Intended Nationally Determined Contribution of Republic of Serbia” (2017).
GPP2ADRION is a change driver when it comes to GHG emissions reduction and meeting the targets foreseen by the regulations mentioned above.
Other GPP National Action Plans: in all ADRION countries there are specific regulations for the mandatory adoption of GPP criteria and specific targets that range from 20% to 100% of procedures performed according to GPP rules:
1) Croatia: application of GPP criteria for many Public services with an objective of 50% of all PP procedures to include GPP Criteria within 2020; specific obligations set out in article 6 of the Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency are transposed in the national Ordinance which lays down that central government must purchase only products, services and buildings with high energy efficiency performance.
2)Greece: mandatory application of GPP criteria for many Public services with different implementation targets ranging from 20% to 80% of PP to include GPP criteria; the average GPP procedures to the 50% of all PP procedures within 2023; Greece has set mandatory and non-mandatory criteria for different product groups;
3) Italy: mandatory application of GPP procedures in 100% of applicable PP procedures. Under art. 34 of the Legislative Decree 50/2016 on public procurement and concessions, as amended by art. 23 of the Legislative Decree 56/2017, the introduction of at least the technical specifications and the contract clauses of the Minimum Environmental Criteria is obligatory in tender documents also for procurements below the threshold amounts.
4)Slovenia: mandatory application of GPP criteria for many public services with an objective of 50% of all PP procedures to include GPP Criteria within 2021; GPP requirements are regulated by the national Decree on Green Public Procurement (Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 51/17, 64/19 and 121/21).
With reference to non-EU countries, there is no direct legal framework to support the adoption of GPP for their public expenses. However, as previously stated, it appears essential to adopt these procedures in order to promote sustainable development of the ADRION region.
Other Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC: On 30th March 2022, a proposal for a new regulation on ecodesign of sustainable products, published was published. It represents the cornerstone of the Commission's approach to circular and more environmentally sustainable products. The proposal builds on the existing Ecodesign Directive, which currently only covers energy-related products. The framework will enable a wide range of requirements to be established, including: product durability, reusability, upgradability and repairability; presence of substances that inhibit circularity; energy and resource efficiency; recycled content; regeneration and recycling; carbon and environmental footprints; and information requirements, including a passport for digital products. According to the department for growth (DG GROW), responsible for EU Commission policies on the single market, industry, entrepreneurship and small businesses, the forthcoming ecodesign directive will make GPP mandatory for the products it will regulate. This Directive will ensure the free movement of such products within the internal market and it contributes to sustainable development by increasing the level of protection of the environment, while at the same time increasing the security of the supply chain.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B IPA Adriatic-Ionian

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-01

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

70 / 70 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

653 / 653 (100%)

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GPP2ADRION: Fostering the adoption and implementation of GPP procedures to promote a transition towards a circular economy

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