Packaging-Free Food Retail: A Comparison of the Czech Republic and Moldova

This thesis examines the development of packaging-free and local food retail in the Czech Republic and Moldova. It focuses on the legislative framework, existing infrastructure, and broader conditions influencing sustainable consumption in both countries, with particular attention to Moldova as a post-Soviet state striving to align with European environmental standards. The theoretical part outlines key principles of the circular economy and introduces topics related to waste management and consumer behaviour. The empirical section is based on a questionnaire survey carried out in Moldova in 2024, which explored shopping habits, attitudes towards packaging-free and local purchasing, and perceived barriers among Moldovan consumers. The findings show that although interest in environmental issues is gradually increasing, practical engagement in sustainable purchasing remains limited due to insufficient infrastructure, price sensitivity, and low public awareness. At the same time, the strong tradition of local markets provides a promising basis for further development of sustainable retail forms. The thesis identifies the main opportunities and challenges linked to the expansion of packaging-free and local food retail and presents recommendations aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting local producers, and strengthening environmental education in Moldova.