The Freedom of Information Center, in cooperation with the Faculty of Economics and Management of Yerevan State University, brought together various stakeholders in the circular economy to discuss its approaches and the application of the model in Armenia. The discussion was also available to the wider public via live broadcast by ABNews TV.
On June 10, the Freedom of Information Center, in cooperation with the Faculty of Economics and Management of Yerevan State University, hosted a multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion on circular economy practices in Armenia. The event brought together representatives of government agencies, businesses, the Circular Economy Coalition, and academia to explore practical solutions and discuss the potential for systemic transformation of Armenia’s economic value chain. The discussion was also livestreamed by ABNews TV, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The roundtable aimed to address the pressing questions faced by businesses in the circular economy sector and to provide clear, actionable insights with the support of the expert community. Participants emphasized the urgent need to adopt circular economy principles in Armenia, citing both the environmental benefits and the socio-economic opportunities it can create. They also discussed the critical roles that government, business, and civil society must play in this transition.
The circular economy model focuses on extending the life cycle of products through reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling. This approach significantly reduces waste and pollution, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
Armenia has already taken meaningful steps toward integrating circular economy concepts. Several initiatives in recent years have explored this potential, with some businesses receiving financial support to adopt circular practices.
Insights from Stakeholders and Entrepreneurs
Misha Poghosyan, Program Coordinator at Impact Hub Yerevan and representative of the CirculUP! program, spoke about the financial and educational opportunities their initiative offers to the business community. He noted that many Armenian enterprises are already practicing circularity without recognizing it.
“Business models such as shoe repair or clothing rental, which are common in Armenia, are promoted in Europe as prime examples of the circular economy,” Poghosyan said. “This demonstrates that Armenia has a unique foundation to further develop and scale circular practices.”
Tigran Jrbashyan, Partner at Ameria Consulting and member of the Circular Economy Coalition, stressed the need for a systemic and integrated approach.
“The circular economy should not be treated as a standalone strategy but embedded across sectoral strategies to improve overall efficiency,” he said, highlighting the role of innovation and advanced technology in the process.
Entrepreneurs also shared their experiences and challenges. Hayk Hambarchyan, founder and director of HAYBED orthopedic mattress factory, emphasized the importance of state-business collaboration and the need for increased public awareness.
“There is still work to be done to shape a culture that values recycled and redesigned products. Changing consumer behavior is key to advancing circular economy goals,” Hambarchyan stated.
Gagik Vardanyan, founder of the footwear brand SOLER, addressed the need for financial support to transition toward circular business models.
“We see the potential in circular practices, but the path forward- what needs to change and how much investment is required – remains unclear,” he said.
Watch the full discussion: Armenian Business News YouTube Channel
This roundtable was organized in partnership with the Faculty of Economics and Management of Yerevan State University.
The initiative of the Freedom of Information Center is made possible thanks to the EU-supported grant as part of the CirculUP! Project, which is led by the Impact Hub Network, Impact Hub Yerevan, and the Environment and Health NGO – funded by the European Union in Armenia.
