INFO Day Highlights the Role of Academia and SMEs in Advancing the Circular Economy in Albania
On Friday, September 27, 2024, Co-PLAN hosted an important event within the framework of the CROSS-REIS project. Financed by the European Union via the Horizon 2021-2027 European Excellence Initiative, the CROSS-REIS project—CROSS-disciplinary network for research excellence in Regenerative Economy Innovation eco-Systems—brings together institutions from eight countries: Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Croatia, Slovenia, Spain, Norway, and Italy. Running from January 1, 2024, until December 31, 2028, the project focuses on key themes such as the circular economy, waste management, and urban biodiversity, aiming to elevate scientific research and drive the transition towards a regenerative economy.
The INFO Day served as an opportunity to present the project’s objectives and activities to a wider audience, including academics, policymakers, and the general public, while fostering deeper dialogue on the regenerative economy. One of the event’s key components was the roundtable titled “Bridging the Gap: Challenges and Opportunities in Advancing Circular Economy for SMEs and Academia in Albania”.
During the roundtable, panellists explored the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and academia in adopting circular economy practices. These challenges include limited resources, regulatory barriers, and a lack of awareness. However, participants agreed that collaboration between academia and SMEs is key to overcoming these obstacles, driving innovation, and creating sustainable, practical solutions. The panel highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between research and industry to facilitate Albania’s shift towards a circular economy.
Kejt Dhrami, a researcher at Co-PLAN and moderator of the roundtable, led the discussion with key insights from prominent panellists, including:
- Marsela Robo, Director at the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation (NASRI);
- Merita Toska, Vice Rector for Academic Process at Polis University;
- Valbona Koçi, Advisor for Quadruple Helix Approach Promotion at EU4Innovation;
- Edvin Zhllima, Researcher at DSA and Professor at the Agriculture University of Tirana.
- Jona Haxhialiu, Advisor on Circular Economy & Private Sector Engagement at EU 4 Circular Economy and Livable Cities;
The discussions emphasised the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, involving businesses, academic institutions, and government entities, to drive the country towards sustainable economic models. The roundtable also provided a platform to share potential solutions, such as increasing research funding, promoting knowledge transfer, and enhancing regulatory frameworks for circular practices in Albania.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, followed by a presentation of future activities within the CROSS-REIS project. Fiona Imami, a researcher at Co-PLAN, highlighted upcoming events that will further promote the project’s goals and expand the network’s impact across Europe.
With 25 participants from various sectors, including governmental entities, NGOs, research institutions, businesses, and the media, the INFO Day successfully sparked discussions around the intersection of research, innovation, and practical application in advancing a circular economy. The CROSS-REIS project aims to continue this momentum by engaging diverse stakeholders, further strengthening collaboration, and providing valuable contributions towards a sustainable, regenerative economy across Europe.
To read more about the event click here.
For more information about upcoming events and activities, visit the CROSS-REIS project website.