Competitiveness of Slovak Agriculture Compared to the European Union in the Context of the Circular Economy

The circular economy is built on minimizing waste and maximizing the use of resources. The goal is to protect the environment and ensure the supply of limited raw materials in accordance with sustainability. The circular economy enhances natural capital and thus helps to increase the competitiveness of the country. The main objective of the work is to determine whether higher support for research and development affects the development of the circular economy and the associated waste generation. Despite persistent geographical differences in innovation between EU 27 countries in R&D spending, this study demonstrates that high investment does not always equal sectoral efficiency. Using a comparative analysis including R&D expenditure, circular economy investment, and waste generation indicators, the research highlights that specific priorities often outweigh general economic strength. Furthermore, the findings revealed no direct link between agricultural R&D funding and waste generation, suggesting that waste levels are influenced by industry intensity and local legislation rather than the volume of research. Economic sustainability ultimately depends on the efficient conversion of resources into value through policy management and eco-innovation, not just the volume of spending itself.