Recent scientific insights on circular economy (CE) have enabled researchers to develop a new concept of circular agriculture (CA), which encompasses principles of bio-economy in agriculture, integrates technological and process innovations in farm management. This allows for farming models that allow farms to strive towards a zero-carbon target. The aim of this study is to identify the economic and environmental impacts arising from on-farm application of circularity principles. Thus, the project will analyse the concepts and theoretical models of the CE in agriculture and develop a theoretical model of CA; examine existing processes and technologies for implementing the CE in agriculture and assess their relevance in Lithuania; review policy instruments for the implementation of the CE in agriculture in the EU and Lithuania; identify barriers and drivers for the implementation of CE in Lithuanian farms and opportunities for its application; carry out an assessment of the economic and environmental benefits of the implementation of CE principles in agriculture; and develop policy recommendations for the implementation of CA in Lithuania. The project relies on a set of the quantitative and qualitative methods that allow assessing willingness to pay for implementation of the CE and effectiveness of the policy measures. The results of the project will directly contribute to climate change mitigation and the implementation of the Green Deal and the Strategic Plan for Lithuanian Agriculture and Rural Development 2023–2027. The project will also identify barriers to the development of CA in Lithuania and provide policy recommendations. The project will also contribute to the creation of new high-quality jobs and enhancing the quality of life of rural communities.
Project No. S-MIP-24-30
Project Duration: September 2024 – December 2026
Project Leader Dr. Tomas Baležentis
Project Group: Dr. Dalia Štreimikienė, Dr. Artiom Volkov, Dr. Mangirdas Morkūnas, Dr. Vida Dabkienė, Dr. Justas Štreimikis, Jing Peng