Extending product lifetimes through re-use and repair has tremendous social and environmental impact and is at the heart of a circular economy vision. These activities can be a powerful vehicle to help develop human capital, strengthen social cohesion and help restore and regenerate cities and regions. Such aspects are seldom put into the spotlight during discussions on Europe’s move towards circular economy.

The main aim of the public conference is to show-case examples of cooperation between social enterprise, public bodies and private industry and to discuss what could be done to further include community and social enterprise initiatives in Europe’s vision of a circular economy. High profile speakers ranging from the European institutions, public authorities, private industry and social enterprises will present their views in order to stimulate an this important and timely debate.

The event will take place in Charleroi, Belgium, a city with a rich industrial heritage undergoing a dynamic regeneration and transformation. Support for social enterprise is very strong in Charleroi, and the event will provide the opportunity for participants on the second day to visit social enterprise and community initiatives in the region.