The first training school organized under the auspices of the ECO4ALL COST Action (CA22124) took place from February 12 to 15, 2025, at Harokopio University of Athens, Greece. This event, titled Empowering Sustainable Consumption: A SWOT Analysis of Circular Economy Strategies in Consumer Protection, marked a significant step toward advancing sustainable consumption practices through Circular Economy strategies.
The training school was held in collaboration with our COST Action and brought together 19 early-career researchers and practitioners alongside 6 expert trainers. The event aimed to explore the critical role that Circular Economy strategies play in enhancing consumer protection while achieving sustainability goals. The training school provided a unique platform for cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration, focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of Circular Economy strategies.
Day 1 Highlights:
The event kicked off with an inspiring welcome and introduction by Olesea Plotnic, Chair of the ECO4ALL COST Action, who set the tone for the sessions ahead. Participants were introduced to the concept of community-based circular economies through an insightful presentation by Gerry Aiken. This session was followed by interactive group work that fostered collaboration among attendees. The day concluded with a deep dive into circular economy policies and urban case studies, presented by Agisilaos Economou, and a practical session on circularity metrics led by Isidora Milošević.
Day 2 Highlights:
The second day focused on the practical application of circular economy strategies. Key sessions included a discussion on the importance of Industrial Symbiosis and its connection to circular economy goals, led by Merim Kasumovic and Apostolos Michopoulos. These sessions emphasized how Industrial Symbiosis plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). A hands-on workshop on strategic management in circular economy was facilitated by Isidora Milošević and Olesea Plotnic, while participants developed circular economy strategies through SWOT analysis and real-world case studies, guided by Gerry Aiken.
Day 3 Highlights:
The final day of the training school provided an opportunity for participants to showcase their learning outcomes. Trainees presented their insights through posters, highlighting key findings from workshops and discussions. A collaborative session led by Isidora Milošević and Olesea Plotnic focused on developing actionable circular economy roadmaps, which aimed to provide participants with practical tools for future projects. The event concluded with closing remarks, reflections, and the distribution of certificates, celebrating the dedication and enthusiasm of all participants.
Fostering Collaboration and Networking
Throughout the training school, participants from both the ECO4ALL and LIAISE COST Actions had the opportunity to establish new collaborations and brainstorm innovative project ideas on circular economy and sustainable development. The synergy between the two COST Actions paved the way for future research, partnerships, and impactful initiatives that will drive the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy.
A heartfelt thank you to all the attendees, expert trainers, and local organizer Roido Mitoula for their invaluable contributions. The success of this event reflects the growing momentum in promoting sustainable consumption and circular economy practices. We look forward to more collaborative efforts in shaping a greener and more sustainable future!
Stay tuned for more updates and future initiatives from the ECO4ALL and LIAISE COST Actions!