EU4Environment Action supports the promotion of the Eco-Industrial Parks in Moldova
Industrial parks and free economic zones have long proved to be effective tools for attracting investments and advancing regional development. At the same time, their means of operation, despite the obvious economic and social benefits, have also led to damaging outcomes including a negative impact on the environment and human health. To respond to this, the creation of Eco-Industrial Parks (EIPs) would help address the negative impacts caused by industries and traditional Industrial Parks.
On a global level, the concept of EIPs is promoted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the World Bank Group, and Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (German Development Cooperation) (GIZ) GmbH. Together, the three organisations defined the basic requirements and performance criteria needed for an industrial park to qualify as an Eco-Industrial Park (EIP). This assignment for undertaking the EIP feasibility assessment in two Industrial Parks in the Republic of Moldova falls under the implementation activities of the EU4Environment Action.
The Action is funded by the European Union and implemented in this area by UNIDO, supported in its delivery by the International EIP Experts from Sofies as well as by National Industrial Park experts. In accordance with the National Action Plan for the implementation of the EU4Environment Action and in agreement with the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Environment in Moldova, IP Tracom and FEZ Valkaneș are designated as pilot territories for testing the introduction of the methodological elements of an eco-industrial park using the international framework for Eco-Industrial Parks.
Over the past few months, the EIP feasibility assessment for both these parks has been undertaken through remote engagements with the International EIP expert team. This field mission will be used to follow up on these discussions, validate the findings until the current date and provide support for developing concrete next steps and an action plan to help the IPs progress towards becoming EIPs.