Circular Economy Park close to Tirana Airport
An integrated, impactful contribution to Climate Protection, Waste Management, Education, Health and Community Building
Introduction
Welcome to our Circular Economy Park!
Opened to the public in March 2025, this innovative business and training hub brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and
changemakers to drive sustainable impact for Albania.
Our mission?
To inspire every visitor—whether with a groundbreaking business idea, essential know-how,
valuable connections, or simply the joy of sustainable living.
Here, everyone finds their place:
- Entrepreneurs connect with like-minded partners and investment opportunities.
- Shoppers discover high-quality second-hand treasures in our World of Values.
- Families enjoy a dedicated kids’ area with enriching toys.
- Makers & creatives explore tools and DIY materials.
- Learners dive into our showroom of sustainable innovations and guided tours.
- Food lovers relax with delicious vegetarian snacks and a cozy cup of coffee.
Experience sustainability in action – and be part of the change!
Challenges: What Motivates Us?
The Ishmi River, the dirtiest in Europe, carries waste and untreated wastewater from Tirana and nearby industries, with trash hanging up to 3 meters high along its banks. About 80% of Albania’s population lives near this river or depends on agriculture impacted by its pollution.
More than just a polluted waterway, the Ishmi is a silent threat, poisoning the land, spreading disease, and damaging vital resources. At Recycling Albania, we are dedicated to cleaning up the environment, beginning with the Ishmi River through our Circular Economy Park and other initiatives.
Our mission is to restore and protect the future of our communities and ecosystems together with our many dedicated partners and supporters from public and private sector.
| Informal waste collectors on the polluted banks of the Ishmi River (2022) |
Goals: What Do We Want to Achieve?
Our goals are ambitious yet achievable. Over the next few years, we aim to significantly increase waste recycling, provide stable incomes for waste collectors, and promote circular economy solutions. Through educational initiatives and partnerships with schools and businesses, we seek to inspire a new generation of eco-conscious citizens and leaders. Ultimately, we aim to create a thriving ecosystem where environmental stewardship and economic prosperity go hand in hand.
Our Circular Economy Park: Three Key Hubs
1. Eco-Education Center
A space for trainings, workshops, retreats, business fairs, and career sessions related to sustainability. Constructed from biodegradable and recycled materials, with straw bale clay for natural temperature regulation. Our showroom features circular economy innovations mostly from Europe with potentially game-changing impact in Albania and the Western Balkans.
If you wish to rent this zero-waste event venue, please contact us.
2. World of Values
Our “Circular Marketplace” offers rare treasures, quality second-hand goods, and upcycled items. Soon, we’ll feature locally produced, sustainable culinary specialties. Conscious shopping here means every Euro of profit supports youth education, mentoring students of local schools and universities toward innovative, sustainable careers. We also collaborate with local vendors on sustainable business models.
If you produce sustainable local products you’d like us to feature, wish to collaborate, or wish to donate quality used goods, we’d love to hear from you.
3. Recycling Hall
We process recyclable materials, in particular plastic, glass, metal, and paper through partnerships with four municipalities and about 60 regional companies, preparing them for further processing.
If your institution wants to provide separated recyclables or you have ideas that could increase recycling rates in Albania, please contact us!
Additionally, our bike rental service lets visitors explore the beautiful hinterland toward Gjiri i Lalëzit.
Financing
While our project relies on a combination of public and private funding, we remain committed to financial sustainability. Through innovative revenue streams and strategic partnerships, we aim to bridge the financing gap and secure long-term viability.
Our Goals: What Do We Want to Achieve?
Our mission is ambitious. We want to:
- Introduce High-Impact Circular Economy Solutions – Bring sustainable products, methods, and innovations to the Albanian market at scale with strong partnerships.
- Reduce Waste and Boost Recycling – Work with municipalities, traders, and recyclers like Agels Albania and Kosovo Glass Recycling to cut waste and reach the EU recycling target of 60% by 2030.
- Inspire and Empower Future Leaders – Partner with universities, schools, and businesses to equip the next generation with the skills and networks to drive real change.