Circular Economy as an employability tool for NEET population

The aim of the project was to encourage and equip NEET individuals (not in education, employment, or training) to seize the opportunities offered by the circular economy and related practices such as re-use, repair, and up-cycling. The objective was not only to support their access to employment but also to empower them to engage in environmentally sustainable work practices and to benefit from emerging green opportunities in their countries in the years to come. The main objective of the project was to support and promote green skills among NEET populations, helping them enter the labor market with an environmentally conscious and sustainability-oriented mindset.

The CeNEET project achieved these goals through a series of targeted actions developed specifically for young people. More specifically, the project developed and released a Curriculum for Youth Mentors, who were trained and familiarized with the principles of the circular economy and the specific needs of NEET populations. Throughout the project, Youth Mentors were introduced to key policy areas and legislation related to the EU Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) and engaged in capacity-building on green skills and circular economy practices.

The Youth Mentors also trained NEET participants, equipping them with practical knowledge and skills in sustainability and green entrepreneurship. In addition, the project organized youth exchange mobility actions in partner countries, including study visits to existing circular economy businesses. These visits contributed to policy discussions, the collection of good practices, gap analyses, and the drafting of policy papers.

Finally, policy panels and roundtables were held with youth workers and relevant stakeholders to discuss and develop policy recommendations for better integration of NEET populations into the labor market and for the promotion of circular economy practices within businesses and workplaces.