REG - Tunisia on the Road to a Sustainable Circular Economy.

The circular economy has become a global imperative to address current environmental challenges; it is an economic model focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling resources. In Tunisia, this is of crucial importance as it helps minimize waste, preserve natural resources, and promote environmental sustainability. The use of recycled materials reduces the demand for natural resources, lowers construction costs, and contributes to waste reduction. Additionally, it promotes the sustainability and resilience of road infrastructure.

In acknowledgment of this need, Tunisia organized a significant event to promote this transition. The event took place over two days, on September 13 and 14, 2023, in Tunis. It was organized by the Center for Testing and Construction Techniques, in collaboration with the Ministry of Equipment and Housing, as well as the Ministry of the Environment, Tunisian partners, and associates of the RE-MED project.

A visit to the innovative RN3 road in Ben Arous was one of the highlights of the event. This 1.2-kilometer road will serve as a test site for the integration of recycled materials. It includes four sections, with three dedicated to recycled materials testing and a fourth consisting of natural and non-renewable materials, serving as a reference. The Minister of Equipment and Housing, the Minister of the Environment, and the Director at the Ministry of Economy and Planning visited this innovative road. They observed the progress made so far and attended detailed technical presentations by Tunisian and French experts on the next steps of the project. Their support is crucial to ensuring the success of these innovative initiatives.

The importance of partnerships is a key aspect of the transition to a circular economy, as demonstrated by the formation of essential collaborations during this event. For instance, our company, REG, a partner of the RE-MED project, opened the doors to its first sorting and processing facility in Tunisia. This collaboration will promote recycling and sustainable waste management, representing a crucial step toward a greener and more sustainable future for Tunisia.