Announcement of the Conference: The Role of Local Communities in the Transition to a Circular Economy

The Croatian Society of Economists and the Competence Center for Advanced Engineering Nova Gradiška invite all interested parties to a panel discussion on the topic ‘The Role of Local Communities in the Transition to a Circular Economy‘.

Local communities play a key role in the transition to a circular economy, as they are closest to the challenges and opportunities in their areas. The active participation of these communities enables better alignment of global principles of the circular economy with local resources and needs, thereby supporting ecological sustainability, social cohesion, and economic development.

For a successful transition to a circular economy, strong cooperation is necessary between local communities, policymakers at all levels, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations. Key components of this cooperation include legislative frameworks, financial incentives, informational campaigns, as well as investment in education and training of the population, aimed at raising awareness of sustainable practices.

At the panel, participants will touch on topics such as joint waste management, promoting recycling, utilizing renewable energy sources, and encouraging local production. These activities not only reduce the ecological footprint but also foster innovation, increase community resilience, and create new employment opportunities. Special attention will be paid to the importance of collaboration among different sectors and connectivity with regional and international networks, enabling the exchange of knowledge and best practices.

This event represents an excellent opportunity for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the transition to a circular economy. The discussion will open space for the exchange of ideas and strategies that can enhance the sustainable development of local communities and ensure their adaptation to new global conditions.

This event will bring together experts, representatives of local authorities, the private sector, and civil society organizations with the aim of exchanging knowledge and experiences on sustainable practices in the context of the circular economy. The conference will feature Prof. Dr. Darko Tipurić, President of the Croatian Society of Economists, Adam Đanić, Director of CEKOM, Vinko Grgić, Mayor of Nova Gradiška, Prof. Dr. Nataša Drvenkar, Faculty of Economics at the University of Osijek, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivana Kovač, member of the Executive Board of the Croatian Society of Economists, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lana Lovrenčić Butković, Faculty of Civil Engineering at the University of Zagreb, Dr. Valentina Diviki Keblar, board member of Unija Nova, and Judita Cuculić Župa, Senior Economic Advisor, European Commission Representation in Croatia.