From October 28 to November 1, 2024, the CROSS-REIS project held an intensive event at the EMEA headquarters in Barcelona. The forum, titled Building Capacities and the Knowledge Base for Regenerative Economy Stewardship, brought together experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore regenerative economy systems and foster collaboration within the CROSS-REIS network.
The opening day focused on Building CROSS-REIS Network Research Capacities to Foster and Support Regenerative Innovation Eco-Systems in Europe. Prof. Rym Ayadi, President of EMEA, welcomed participants with a keynote on European policies for regenerative economy development. This was followed by a presentation from Prof. Carlo Sessa, who discussed Regenerative Economy Principles, emphasising that sustainable organisations recognize their embeddedness in nature. The day concluded with a roundtable, where CROSS-REIS partners shared their research capacities and explored potential synergies.
The second day focused on Building up Synergies between Partners’ Research Aims and EMEA Capabilities. Dr. Yeganeh Forouheshfar introduced EMEA’s networks, platforms, and projects. Prof. Carlo Sessa later presented Citizens’ Empowerment and Stewardship of Future-Oriented Policymaking, Claudia Romelli from Consorzio Poliedra presented on Building Capacities for Regenerative Economy Stewardship, showcasing Poliedra’s work in supporting regenerative initiatives across diverse sectors. Following this, project presentations were delivered by EMEA’s Maria Ruiz de Cossío, Christine de Visser, Joanna Grodzka, and junior researchers Paula Pazos Puig, Riccardo De Angeli, and Tiago Fioravanti Zibecchi. The day featured a mini-course by sustainability expert Magali Outters on crafting policy-relevant research messages and influencing policy, followed by an interactive session on effective communication strategies.
The third day’s theme was “Nature Capital and Nature-Based Solutions.” Presentations included:
The fourth day explored “Regenerative Innovation Ecosystems in Catalonia.” Marc Montlleó from Barcelona Regional showcased transformative actions in urban regeneration, including biodiversity and waste management initiatives. Drini Imami from Albania shared insights on regenerative practices in agriculture, focusing on urban and peri-urban areas. Prof. Carlo Sessa led a training session on strategic foresight, introducing the Three Horizons approach and the TRIS model to guide regenerative economic transitions. A final discussion centered on integrating regenerative practices into local business and policy frameworks.
On the final day, November 1, 2024, participants visited Barcelona's renowned 22@ Innovation District. This ambitious urban regeneration project in the Poblenou area of the Sant Martí district spans nearly 200 hectares, transforming former industrial land into a hub for knowledge-intensive activities. As one of Europe’s largest urban regeneration initiatives, 22@ is a model of how cities can leverage sustainable urban development to foster innovation and economic growth. The visit provided CROSS-REIS participants with firsthand insights into strategic urban planning and the integration of regenerative principles in city ecosystems.
This event in Barcelona provided a platform for participants to deepen their knowledge, forge new partnerships, and align their research efforts to advance regenerative economy practices across Europe. Stay tuned for further updates and outcomes from this impactful gathering.