Climate KIC and EASME host WCEF event on circular economy

The World Circular Economy Forum brings together business leaders, policymakers, and experts to present the world’s best circular economy solutions. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic the landmark circular economy event, due to take place in Toronto in September, has been postponed until 2021. In its place, WCEFonline is diving into why and how a circular economy can help reboot and build resilience in the economy.

At 10am CET on 1 December 1, Climate KIC and the European Commission’s Executive Agency for Small and Medium Enterprises (EASME) is holding a WCEFonline Side Event: Circular economy research and innovation for a green recovery.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the fragile nature of our current linear economies and the systemic challenges our societies face. But how can this be an opportunity to build a green and sustainable recovery that will lead to climate neutrality?

This event will explore how the efficient design and funding of circular economy research and innovation can support nations all over the world with their economic recovery plans. The session will bring together a global community, offering an excellent opportunity for learning, best practice sharing and increased cooperation for a circular economy transition. Among other things, the event will also present the final results of the EU H2020 CICERONE project, dedicated to circular economy programming and funding.

Javier Peinado, Head of Sector, Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (EASME), and Cliona Howie, Head of Circular Economy, Climate KIC, will open the event, followed by a panel who will discuss concrete actions and progress towards a circular economy transition.

Panellists

• Bernie Kiely – Department of the Environment, Climate & Communications of the Government of Ireland
• Janja Kreitmayer McKenzie – Ministry for the Environment and Spatial Planning of the Government of Slovenia
• María Paz Díaz Nieto – Regional Ministry for Economy and Finance of the Government of Cantabria
• Roberta de Carolis – ENEA: National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development of Italy (representing H2020 CICERONE)
• Keti Medarova-Bergstrom – Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

The session will also invite questions from the public and touch base on the challenges, opportunities and lessons learned from the implementation of systemic circular economy programmes in the context of recovery.

Click here for more information and to register for the event.