The EMEA will organise the stage “Building Capacities and the Knowledge Base for Regenerative Economy Stewardship” in the frame of CROSS-REIS EU Funded Project (CROSS-disciplinary network for research excellence in Regenerative Economy Innovation eco-Systems) on 28 October – 01 November 2024, at EMEA HQs in Recinte Modernista Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.
The stage will gather researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from universities and institutions across Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Albania, Slovenia, Norway, and Italy—CROSS-REIS project partners. It will also engage key stakeholders involved in regenerative economy projects, environmental stewardship, and sustainability research.
The Cross-disciplinary Network for Research Excellence in Regenerative Economy Innovation eco-Systems (CROSS-REIS) is committed to advancing knowledge and research that fosters regenerative economies. Regenerative economies are built upon principles that not only sustain but restore and revitalize natural ecosystems and societal wellbeing. In this context, CROSS-REIS brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across Europe and the Mediterranean region to engage in collaborative efforts to enhance research capacities and develop innovative solutions.
The upcoming stage titled “Building Capacities and the Knowledge Base for Regenerative Economy Stewardship” aims to empower participants with the knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to steward research and innovation on regenerative economy systems. As the global community faces climate change, environmental degradation, and economic inequities, the role of research in shaping a regenerative future is critical. The workshop will delve into practical approaches to building research capacities, forming synergies across disciplines, and effectively influencing policymaking in the context of regenerative economic systems.
Objectives
- Capacity Building: Strengthen the research capabilities of CROSS-REIS partners to support the development of regenerative innovation ecosystems across Europe and beyond.
- Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate the exchange of ideas, tools, and methodologies related to regenerative economies, ensuring an interdisciplinary approach to research excellence.
- Policy Influence: Equip participants with strategies to craft clear, actionable research messages that can influence policy development for regenerative economic practices.
- Synergy Creation: Foster collaboration and synergies among research-intensive partners and widening partners to integrate data tools and regenerative innovation in national contexts.
- Strategic Foresight: Explore future-oriented practices such as nature-based solutions, the Three Horizons framework, and the TRIS model, which are pivotal in driving transitions to regenerative economic systems.
Stage Structure
Day 1: Building Network Research Capacities for Regenerative Innovation Ecosystems
The first day focuses on bridging the research capacities of CROSS-REIS partners. Participants will explore European policies for regenerative economies, principles of regenerative business models, and opportunities for collaboration across disciplines. The day concludes with a roundtable aimed at identifying capacity-building goals and synergies among research-intensive and widening partners.
Day 2: Strengthening Synergies for Effective Research and Policy Impact
The second day highlights the capabilities of the Euro-Mediterranean Economists Association (EMEA) and presents methodologies to empower citizens in future oriented and life needs responsive policymaking. Participants will engage in advanced discussions on integrating data tools, and a hands-on mini-course will offer tips on how simplifying complex research findings to brief policymakers. The day concludes with a role-playing session where participants practice pitching their research to policymakers.
Day 3: Nature Capital and Nature-Based Solutions
This day is dedicated to exploring how nature-based solutions and natural capital fit within regenerative economies. Participants will examine research outcomes from agroforestry practices, landscape development, and renewable energy. Discussions will focus on how these solutions can be applied in the business and policy contexts of CROSS-REIS partner countries.
Day 4: Regenerative Innovation Ecosystem of Catalunya
Participants will explore urban regeneration practices in Barcelona and Catalonia, focusing on urban biodiversity, circular economy, and waste management. A roundtable will address key challenges hindering the transition to regenerative economies, followed by a conclusive session with group presentations on the workshop’s collective deliverables.
Day 5: Field Visit to the 22@ District
The stage concludes with a visit to Barcelona’s 22@ district, a leading example of urban regeneration and a hub for innovation-driven development.
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced Research Capacities: Participants will leave with stronger skills and knowledge to conduct research in regenerative economies and innovation ecosystems.
- Policy-Relevant Research: The workshop will equip researchers with the tools to craft messages that can drive policy changes in their respective national contexts.
- Collaborative Networks: New synergies will emerge among research partners, fostering collaboration across borders and disciplines.
- Strategic Vision: Participants will gain insights into strategic foresight practices that can guide the long-term transition to regenerative economies.
Link to the CROSS – REIS Project page
