The Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Rijeka recently hosted the 7th International Scientific Conference "Economics of Digital Transformation (EDT) DIGITOMICS", from June 19-22, 2024, in Opatija, Croatia. This year's theme, "Artificial Intelligence and Productivity: Challenges and Opportunities," explored AI's transformative impact on various facets of life and its dual nature as both a disruptor and a catalyst for efficiency and innovation.
The presentations by reputable keynote speakers included discussions on the societal benefits of AI by Peter Nijkamp (The Regional Science Academy (TRSA) and Vice President of Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi / VU University Amsterdam). Tomasz Kozluk, an OECD Economic Counsellor, spoke on AI's impact on productivity, distribution, and growth. Carlos Moreno from Paris IAE – Panthéon Sorbonne University in France presented on the "15-Minute City" concept and urban intelligence, while Carlo Ratti from MIT's Senseable City Lab explored the "15-Minute Senseable Transformation." Finally, Karima Kourtit from Open University the Netherlands and Peter Nijkamp discussed "City Love: The New Economic Proximity."
The CROSS-REIS project team actively participated in the conference, contributing to key discussions on fostering urban resilience and prosperity. On Day 2, Thursday, June 20th, CROSS-REIS team members joined the panel "Empowering Long-Term Urban Resilience and Prosperity: Fostering a Regenerative Economy in European Cities," moderated by Marko Ćirović, (Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Belgrade). The panellists included:
This panel focused on the challenges such as climate change, urbanisation, and economic inequality. It highlighted the regenerative economy's potential to promote sustainability, inclusivity, and long-term prosperity in urban areas. The discussions emphasized innovative strategies to create more dynamic, comprehensive, and forward-looking urban spaces that go beyond conventional sustainability approaches.
Additionally, CROSS-REIS project members presented a significant paper titled "Measuring Circular Economy Success in the EU: Policy Recommendations, authored by Jelena J. Stanković, Marija Džunić, Ivana Marjanović, and Marina Stanojević.
The CROSS-REIS project is proud to have been part of this prestigious event, engaging with leading thinkers on the future of digital transformation and urban sustainability.