Implementation of circular economy principles to promote the development of rural areas

Abstract

The relevance of the study lies in identifying and explaining the impact of implementing circular economy technologies on the development of rural areas within the framework of the state strategy for regional development in Ukraine, thereby contributing to ensuring the socio-economic stability of communities and the overall security of the country. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of utilising circular economy opportunities on the development of rural territories. The abstract-logical method was employed to substantiate the research methodology and formulate theoretical conclusions. The analytical and comparative methods was utilised to organise researchers' scientific approaches to theoretical aspects of circular economy development, refine the methodological basis, and substantiate the applicability of circular economy principles in rural development. The research utilised a graphical method to illustrate the findings and an abstract-logical approach to draw conclusions and recommendations. The study was divided into three main stages. The literature on the contemporary definition of “circular economy” was examined, and the driving forces and barriers to systemic circular economy in rural areas were analysed. The study investigated how European Union countries apply strategies to address environmental and economic issues through the lens of circular economy. The analysis of the experience in implementing circular economy practices in EU countries revealed a clear trend towards more sustainable resource utilisation and reduced environmental impact. The implementation of the “Farm to Fork” strategy under the European Green Deal is a crucial step towards ensuring sustainable resource use and implementing environmentally friendly practices in agriculture and the food industry. An assessment of the impact of implementing circular economy on the socio-economic development of rural areas was conducted, indicating that the development of circular models can be key to optimising resource utilisation, creating new employment opportunities, improving production efficiency, and increasing the profitability of agricultural enterprises. The implementation of circular methods in agriculture can reduce resource costs and provide more stable conditions for development. The results can be beneficial for government bodies, local administrations, agricultural enterprises, and cooperatives in Ukraine striving to achieve sustainable development of rural territories through the implementation of circular approaches in the economy

Keywords

• regional development
• sustainable development
• rural areas
• regional growth
• rural development