CIRCULAR_ECOSYSTEMS

Its main objective is to develop circular economy strategies and action plans to consolidate territorial ecosystems capable of developing systemic solutions that help minimise the use of resources and speed up the transition to zero waste, eliminating pollution problems caused by waste.

The development of joint governance models in the circular economy will make it possible to establish common strategies between Spain and Portugal that help to conserve ecosystem services in the cross-border area through the efficient use of endogenous resources and minimising the impact of economic activity on ecosystems, thus avoiding the deterioration of biodiversity.

To this end, an Action Plan for the Circular and Sustainable Economy will be drawn up for each of the territories that are part of the project, which will serve as a conceptual framework for the transition to the circular economy. This Action Plan must support the proposals in each territory and will be supported by the revision of municipal and regional regulations that may affect the circular economy.

Each partner will choose one or two actions to be implemented in the form of easily replicable pilot micro-projects that will serve as an impetus for the overall Systemic Solution, and in the case of Guimarães the focus will be on the circularity of textile waste. It will also make it possible to draw up Guimarães’ Circular Economy strategy and a Guide to Circular Ecological Public Purchasing.

As well as Guimarães, CIRCULAR ECOSYSTEMS includes the Junta de Castilla y León (leaders), Valladolid City Council, Ávila Provincial Council, the Municipality of Matosinhos and Inorde – Instituto de Desarrollo Económico Ourensano.

The project will last three and a half years and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Guimarães has received funding of around 280,000 euros.