Author: Здружение за заштита и унапредување на животната средина ЕКО ЛОГИК

“ACRID Network” is a private initiative, independent, non-partisan, non-political, international network, with strong focus, expertise and interest in Science, Innovations, Research and Development and have 4 sectors of members: Private,
Academic,
Public and
Experts.Concept and PurposeACRID means Associated Candidate Countries Research, Innovation and Development Network. ACRID is a private professional network focusing to support and improve the R&D+I in the accession and negotiation process to EU by the Horizon Europe Associated and Candidate Countries as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Moldova, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, including *Kosovo, with opportunities to include other EU programmes Associate countries and third countries.ACRID is focusing on improving the Research, Innovation and Development Capacity of EU Associated Candidate Countries. With aim of promoting EU values and EU financial instruments from the MFF 2021-2027, fully aligning with EU values on EU Green Deal, Digitalization, Education, Innovation, Climate, Health, Environment, Energy and Agriculture.ACRID Network is bringing together, connecting and offering project disseminating activities to more than 42 Mill citizens in EU Associated Countries. This is very important for young population, researchers, project results dissemination, and impact in EU projects, bringing additional value and know-how shearing among citizens and institutions.ACRID Network capacity in numbers until (Q1)2023:ACRID Network – 10 Countries from (EU Candidate AL,BiH,NMK,MNG,RS,TR,ML,GE,UA)ACRID Network – 150 million Market Economy – Population (EU=446,8) = 33,7% of EUACRID Network – 42 mill Citizens, Direct Dissemination of the Project ResultsACRID Network – 947,5 Billion GDPACRID Network – 8,049 euro average GDP per capitaACRID Network – 8,5% average GDP GrowthACRID Network – 141 Billions Gov BudgetACRID Network – 1,410 Mill (1%) for R&D from Gov Budget (2,5%=3,520 Mill euro)ACRID Network – 450 Mill euro Horizon 2020 Projects 2014-2020ACRID Network – 144 ExpertsACRID Network members by the end of 2022 are coming from the cities and regions with population as: (20mill)-Istanbul, (1,5mill)-Canakkale with Balikesir, and (10mill)-Aydin with Izmir and with Konya regions, and (1,2Mill)-Skopje, Ohrid, Negotino, Gevgelija, Kumanovo, Tetovo, then (1Mill)-Tirana, and (1Mill)-Prishtina region, (0,5Mill)-Podgorica, (1,4Mill)-Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Zenica, Tuzla, Mostar, Bihać, (2,4Mill)-Belgrade, Novi Sad, Nis, Vranje.ACRID Network is bringing together project applicants from countries with 172,6 mill people market as total number of citizens. (Turkey 88mill, Macedonia 2,4mill, Albania 3,2mill, Moldova 2,59 Mill, Montenegro 0,8Mill, Bosnia and Herzegovina 3,8mill, Georgia 3,71Mill, Serbia 8.2mill, Israel 9,6Mill, Tunisia 12,3Mill, Ukraine 38Mill and *Kosovo2.2Mill)Total of 150 million Market EconomyACRID Network is connecting with partners from more than 18 EU Member States (EU Member States) partners from: Bulgaria, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Italy, France, Germany, Nederland, Sweden, Poland, Romania, Lithuania, and additional partners from 4 international countries (+USA, Japan, Indonesia & Malaysia)and partners from 15 African Countries: Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, Congo, Seychelles, Botswana, Rwanda and north Africa countries Morocco and Egypt.VisionACRID Network aims to be the best and different R+I&D Network in South East Europe and Associated Candidate Countries with impact in Academic and Private Sector, bringing educational, entrepreneurial and business opportunities for employment, networking and know-how transfer to young population, academic, private and public sector.MissionTo improve the Innovation Capacity, Innovation Index and R&D capacity in the EU Associated Candidate Countries. Networking the best researchers and experts from Academic and Private Sector, collaborating to improve the Education, R+I&D, Entrepreneurship and Startup ecosystems, Investors and Policy makers decisions, in EU Associated Candidate Countries and focus on Western Balkan Region.

At Eco Logic, we are committed to promoting sustainability through innovative initiatives. One of our standout projects, RE-CYCLING: Bike Reuse and Riding Fair, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Sport Program, has made a lasting impact by encouraging green mobility, circular economy practices, and active lifestyles among children and communities across Europe.Reviving Cycling, Reducing WasteThe RE-CYCLING project was born out of a dual necessity: reintroducing kids to physical activities post-pandemic and addressing the growing problem of bicycle waste. Children outgrow their bikes quickly, leading to unnecessary waste and increased consumption. Our initiative tackled this issue by integrating bike reuse, repair workshops, and cycling fairs, fostering a culture of sustainability in the biking sector.Key Achievements of the ProjectOver the past year, RE-CYCLING has engaged young cyclists, families, and educators across four European countries—North Macedonia, Austria, Italy, and France—through hands-on activities, training programs, and community fairs. Here’s how we measured our success:Knowledge GrowthThrough our Green and Sustainable Biking training program, participants gained a deeper understanding of circular economy principles and sustainable cycling practices. Surveys showed a notable increase in awareness, particularly regarding bike reuse and repair.Promoting Green MobilityOne of the project’s goals was to increase cycling frequency among students. While data collection faced some challenges, survey results indicated strong motivation for cycling, with safer infrastructure and peer encouragement as key factors for increased bike usage.Lowering Environmental FootprintsWe assessed the carbon footprint of our RE-CYCLING fairs using CO₂ calculators, ensuring these events adhered to eco-friendly principles such as minimal waste, short supply chains, and plastic-free operations. Though comparing emissions to similar events proved difficult, we remain committed to refining our sustainability efforts.Economic Impact and Bike Repair SuccessOne of the most impactful aspects of the project was offering free bike repair services. The French RE-CYCLING fair, for example, successfully repaired nearly 100 bicycles, resulting in an estimated €1,900 in savings for participants. By keeping bikes in use longer, we not only reduced costs for families but also minimized waste.What’s Next?The success of RE-CYCLING has shown that small-scale circular economy initiatives can drive real change. Moving forward, we aim to:Expand community engagement and repair services
Advocate for safer cycling infrastructure
Standardize data collection for better impact measurementBy embracing sustainability in cycling, we are not just encouraging healthier lifestyles but also taking meaningful steps toward a greener future. Want to be part of this movement? Stay tuned for our upcoming projects and join us in making a difference.Ride Green. Repair More. Waste Less.Funded by the European Union.Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.This publication is part of the project “Re-Cycling – Bike Reuse and Riding Fair”, Project

Are you looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the environment and your community? Do you want to gain hands-on experience in sustainability and youth work while exploring a vibrant city in North Macedonia? This is your chance to join Eco-Logic, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability, environmental protection, and community engagement.About the ProgramProject Duration: 6 months, starting February 1, 2025
Location: Skopje, North MacedoniaHosted by Eco-Logic at their office on Kozle 26a, just a 20-minute walk from the city centerFields of Action As a volunteer with Eco-Logic, you will engage in meaningful activities across two main areas:Climate action, environmental, and nature protection
Youth work and community outreachThis program is an excellent opportunity to contribute to important causes while developing valuable skills and expanding your network.Eligibility and Selection CriteriaOpen to individuals aged 18 to 30 years old
EU and non-EU participants are welcome to applyHow to Apply Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting your experiences and skills.
Motivational Letter expressing your interest in the program and your goals for participating.Application Deadline: Be sure to submit your application as soon as possible to secure your spot.Contact Information If you have any questions or encounter issues related to your stay in Skopje, feel free to reach out to us:Why Join This Program? Volunteering with Eco-Logic is more than just an opportunity to contribute to a noble cause. You’ll:Develop new skills in sustainability, environmental protection, and youth work
Build lasting friendships and connections with like-minded individuals
Immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of North Macedonia
Be part of a team making tangible changes in the fight against climate change and environmental degradationAbout Skopje Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant markets, enjoying traditional Macedonian cuisine, or hiking the nearby mountains, Skopje offers a unique and rewarding experience.Don’t Miss Out Take the first step toward making a difference! Submit your application today and join us in building a more sustainable future.Download the attached PDF for detailed information.