How can the circular economy be implemented in practice within biosphere reserves? And what role can these, as well as other model regions such as nature parks, play in this regard in the future? These questions were the focus of the event.
In addition, the guide “Shaping Transformation – The Circular Economy in Rural Areas” was presented. It shows how regions can tap into and utilise existing potential for the circular economy. Examples include the agricultural and food sectors, biotope and landscape conservation, forestry and the timber industry, tourism and marketing, as well as circular construction and building materials. The guide makes it clear that strong networks, good coordination and concrete projects that are actually implemented are key.
Experiences from the Bliesgau and Spreewald Biosphere Reserves were also presented. The model regions started under different conditions. They build on their networks and partnerships. It became clear that many approaches already exist today that can be built upon and further developed using circular principles.
The guide and further project results can be found here: https://www.ifls.de/bresourceful/ergebnisse
And here: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20070232
Contact person at IfLS: Christoph Mathias (mathias[at]ifls.de)
