Cork hosts European leaders driving a greener future
Cork welcomed delegates from all over Europe this week as the city played host to the REEValue International Conference: Decarbonising European Value Chains, organised in partnership with Cork Chamber. The two-day event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics and innovators for a series of panel discussions and networking opportunities, exploring innovative solutions to decarbonise European value chains.
The decarbonisation of value chains sits at the intersection of business and sustainability; implementing more circular, sustainable practices at every step of the value chain can have a significant, positive impact on overall emissions across many sectors of the economy. The conference explored how to maximise this impact, examining production and supply systems designed to minimise resource use, emissions and waste, while embedding innovative, circular practices where possible. Hosted as part of the LIFE-funded REEValue project, the conference offered delegates the opportunity to explore how local actions can be scaled up to drive Europe-wide decarbonisation solutions across borders.
Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “It has been remarkable to welcome such a diverse group of voices here in Cork. Over the past two days we’ve seen how collaboration and shared learning are central to finding real and sustainable solutions to the decarbonisation challenge. The REEValue project is pivotal in driving this agenda forward and we are proud to host these important discussions at a time when decisive action is needed.”
MEP Billy Kelleher highlighted the importance of aligning EU policy with practical innovation, “Decarbonising value chains is one of the greatest economic and environmental challenges facing Europe, but it is critical that meaningful steps are undertaken to ensure the green transition reaches every layer of European value chains. What we have seen here in Cork is the real potential of businesses, researchers, and policymakers working hand in hand. The EU is committed to supporting projects like REEValue that bridge the gap between EU decarbonisation ambitions and local actions that deliver real change and secure our competitiveness in a globalised economy.”
Dr Alicia Mateos-Cárdenas, REEValue & Sustainability Lead at Cork Chamber added, “REEValue was established to accelerate solutions that integrate sustainability across entire value chains. This conference has demonstrated the power of cross-border collaboration and knowledge-sharing. By working together, we can move from ambition to action and build greener, more resilient economies for the future.”
The REEValue project, a European LIFE-funded project, is a cornerstone initiative that seeks to transform traditional linear production models into circular, environmentally responsible systems.
