This paper aims to develop a Waste Management Composite Index (WMCI) as a Circular Economy (CE) indicator by using a DEA-based model. This approach will enable making a mutual comparison, i.e. comparative analysis of the countries CE performances. Even though many countries have already accomplished a great deal in terms of the CE, there are still numerous of those that have not progressed much, finding themselves at the very beginning of the process. For that matter, the development of the indicators would help monitor changes during the transition process and while shifting to the CE model. In this paper, a tailor-made DEA model is created to fit a two-layer composite index WMCI comprising of eight relevant sub-indicators. The model is applied for the comparison of the 26 European Union (EU) countries. The obtained results could help maintain the countries informed about their position on the ranking list, alongside the level of their implementation of the CE with guidelines and recommendations for possible future development in this area.

Sustainable development and public health quite strongly correlate, being connected and conditioned by one another. This paper therein attempts to offer a representation of Europe’s current situation of sustainable development in the area of public health.

Young people play a pivotal role in instigating and driving significant changes. The impact of individuals’ involvement in environmental conservation, community development, and social change initiatives for sustainable value creation is of considerable importance in the pursuit of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The objective of this study is to examine the contribution of youth engagement in the creation of sustainable value by analyzing their comprehension and prioritization of the 17 SDGs, with the goal of achieving sustainable development and sustainability. The researchers conducted a study on a sample of 1085 individuals between the ages of 14 and 30, who were selected from three distinct countries within the Western Balkan region—the Republic of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Republic of Northern Macedonia. The data were analyzed using factor analysis in conjunction with descriptive and inferential statistics. The survey findings indicate that poverty, hunger, and access to adequate healthcare are the primary SDGs and societal challenges confronting the youth in these nations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of both formal and informal education among youth as a catalyst for societal transformation for sustainable value creation.