Can waste become a valuable resource? How can good ideas and successful pilot projects evolve into real changes that transform our communities? The answer to these questions will be explored at the Final International Conference of the AWASTER (Adopting WASTE as Resource) project, which will take place on 16 June 2026 in Korčula.
This event is co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg Italy–Croatia Cross-Border Cooperation Programme. The conference will bring together representatives of public authorities, businesses, educational institutions, and support organizations to discuss the scaling up of circular economy initiatives and strengthening cross-sector collaboration for sustainable resource management.
Presentation of results and best practice examples
The conference programme will begin at 10:00 a.m. Through a series of dynamic presentations, experts will showcase the key achievements of the AWASTER project, as well as other successful EU initiatives in related fields.
Project Manager Andrea Poldrugovac (IRENA) will introduce participants to the importance of the circular economy in both the regional and EU context and present the project’s main objectives.
Tea Kuzmičić Rosandić (SUNCE Association) and Sara Ferigo (SINLOC) will present practical tools, educational workshops, and activities aimed at engaging entrepreneurs.
Dr. Mirela Petrić (Faculty of Maritime Studies, University of Split) will present the FISHIMPACT project, while Antonija Odak (Regional Development Agency of Dubrovnik-Neretva County – DUNEA) will discuss best practices for sustainable coastal development.
Panel discussion: How can we remove barriers to wider adoption?
Many projects successfully test innovative solutions, but the path from pilot project to large-scale implementation is often challenging. During the panel discussion, “Scaling Circular Economy Initiatives: From Solutions to Wider Adoption”, participants will openly discuss barriers and opportunities for accelerating the transition towards a circular economy.
The panel will feature:
- Pompilio Giovanni Ottavio De Nuzzo, Mayor of the Municipality of Casarano
- Sanda Barkiđija, Regional Development Agency of Dubrovnik-Neretva County – DUNEA
- Stefano Marabotto, Cluster Manager at INNOSAP
- Davide Poletto, Co-founder and CEO of PlasticFree Venice Lagoon
- Andrea Poldrugovac, AWASTER Project Manager, IRENA
The discussion will focus on key topics such as legislative frameworks, financing mechanisms, business sector engagement, and cooperation among different stakeholders. Following the official programme, participants will be invited to a networking lunch.
Korčula without waste!
The AWASTER project goes beyond words and into action. In the afternoon, the programme moves outdoors. From 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., a special “Waste-Free Event” will be held in Korčula Town Park.
Citizens, visitors, and conference participants will have the opportunity to see first-hand examples of circular economy best practices and take part in practical workshops on waste reduction and the reuse of materials and objects.
If you are interested in sustainability, innovation, and practical solutions for a waste-free future, join us in Korčula on 16 June by registering via the LINK provided.
Together, we can contribute to the transition towards more sustainable communities that recognize waste as a valuable resource!
