The application of the five principles of the circular economy (5R concept) starts with Rethink, changing the mindset about how much individually (or collectively, if it concerns a specific business community) we can contribute to reducing waste and in that direction protecting the environment in which we live and function. The next step is Refuse, which involves refusing everything that is unnecessary, difficult to decompose and has a harmful impact on the environment.
The process of Reduce is key to rationally utilizing the resources at our disposal.
Reduce
Reducing the amount of waste and resources is crucial for preserving nature and combatting climate change. We can achieve this through careful consumption, buying only what we really need, and choosing products with less packaging.
For example, we can buy food from local markets without additional plastic packaging, reduce the use of paper, save electricity by turning off appliances when we are not using them, and reduce the consumer lifestyle. Reduce not only reduces waste, but also saves money and natural resources.
| Area | Examples of Reduce | Goal/Benefit |
| Energy | Using LED lights and A+++ appliances | Reduced electricity consumption and bills |
| Plastic | Using cloth bags and avoiding packaging | Less waste and plastic pollution |
| Food | Buying with a plan, saving leftovers, food is not thrown away | Reducing food waste and financial savings |
| Clothing | Buying less, but better quality clothing | Less consumption and support for sustainable fashion |
| Manufacturing | Eco-design: using fewer materials and sustainable resources | Less resource consumption, easier recycling |
Reduce is the first step and most important step also in the 3R concept of a circular economy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: to reduce waste generation and resource consumption from the very beginning – in the design, manufacturing and usage of products.
Translated by: N. Cvetkovska
The content is part of the CIVIL / GREEN Civil project “Give Me Five!”, within the framework of the great regional initiative to mark the Western Balkans Circular Economy Week (May 26- June 1, 2025) under the motto “From Local Fixes to Regional Impact”, implemented by the regional network LogEx, of which CIVIL is a member, upon the initiative of the reputable think tank organization Balkan Forum from Kosovo, and with the support of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund from the United States.
RETHINK: Change your perspective, preserve the planet
REFUSE: Say NO to waste, say YES to the planet
