As part of the International Scientific Conference of the Scientific Society of Economists: Economic Meetings, held on November 15–16, 2024, at the Hilton Hotel in Rijeka, the CROSS-REIS project hosted an Info Day on the second day of the event. This session was dedicated to engaging policymakers and representatives of the academic and scientific research community.

The highlight of the Info Day was a presentation by Saša Čegar, PhD, Associate Professor at the University of Rijeka, Faculty of Economics and Business, titled "CROSS-REIS: How to Build Innovative Ecosystems of the Regenerative Economy to Address Contemporary Issues and Challenges of Urban Development." Prof. Čegar showcased how regenerative economic principles can drive urban development, emphasizing restoration and enhancement of natural and social systems. He underlined the transformative potential of living labs, collaborative environments that foster co-creation among stakeholders to implement innovative solutions. Examples such as Helsinki’s Smart Kalasatama and Amsterdam’s Circular Economy Living Lab illustrated practical applications of these concepts.

Prof. Čegar also introduced the Three Horizons (3H) approach, a strategic framework to envision and implement systemic changes for building resilient urban ecosystems. By addressing urban challenges such as waste management, this approach highlights the steps needed to transition toward a regenerative future.

Panel Discussion: Cities as Living Laboratories for the Regenerative Economy

The Info Day also featured a panel discussion moderated by Prof. Čegar, titled "Cities as Living Laboratories for the Regenerative Economy – Perspectives of Public Policy Makers." The panel brought together experts to discuss the role of urban areas as experimental spaces for sustainable transformation:

• Nenad Antolović, Director of Rijeka Development Agency PORIN
• Vjekoslava Glavan, M.Arch., Head of the Administrative Department for Investments, Spatial Planning, and Property, City of Crikvenica
• Danijel Bertović, Univ.Spec.Oec., Board Member and CEO of SENSUM d.o.o.

The discussion explored strategies for aligning urban investments with green principles, addressing key challenges in public-private partnerships, and fostering collaboration between public administrations, private companies, and communities. Panelists shared insights into projects promoting energy efficiency, eco-friendly transport, and waste management while emphasizing the role of public enterprises in testing and scaling green innovations.

The Info Day concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants gained valuable perspectives on the intersection of urban planning and regenerative economy principles.