The Sweet Smell of Sustainability: O-Krug turns orange peels into opportunity in Skopje

In Skopje, one of the most polluted cities in the world, a women-owned and youth-led enterprise is leading a local circular economy revolution. O-Krug, founded by 22-year-old Marija Burgieva in North Macedonia, is tackling biowaste and air pollution by transforming a simple fruit waste-orange peels-into valuable, eco-friendly products.

Since its launch in October 2022, O-Krug has collected over 8 tonnes of orange peel waste from local juice bars and coffee shops. Rather than letting the peels rot in landfills, the enterprise upcycles them into pure essential oils, sustainable air fresheners, and natural candles. What remains after oil extraction is composted, completing a true zero-waste cycle.

But O-Krug’s impact goes far beyond waste reduction. Its operations are deeply rooted in sustainability: delivery is done by bicycle, packaging is both refillable and plastic-free, and shredded office paper is reused as protective filler. The enterprise has already helped prevent 17.2 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions-an important step toward cleaner air in Skopje.

The social impact is just as powerful. O-Krug has trained more than 10 marginalized young people in circular economy practices and social entrepreneurship, while its “Do Good, Save Food” campaign has reached over 100 children and young adults, promoting a culture of sustainability.

Recognised by organisations such as Balkan Green Ideas, RISE Journey, Aspire Balkans, and the Social Impact Awards, O-Krug is proving that small, community-driven innovation can lead to big environmental change. It is not only creating green jobs but also reshaping how people think about waste and consumer responsibility.

By redefining orange peels as resources rather than refuse, O-Krug is demonstrating that even the most ordinary waste can power a cleaner, fairer, and more circular future.

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