Ignite change through policy, citizen engagement and innovation in Dublin

Dr Sarah Miller

Chief Executive, The Rediscovery Centre

Since 2020, Ireland has witnessed an outstanding surge in efforts to invest, share knowledge and foster the circular economy across all parts of our society.

The commitment to growing circularity is evident through recent policy, innovation and citizen engagement initiatives — all of which will be showcased during the upcoming Circular Economy Hotspot Dublin 2023.

Policy in practice for a circular economy

Recent actions from Irish policymakers have laid the groundwork for circularity to become embedded into the lives of Irish citizens. Cross-government initiatives like the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy exemplify this commitment, ensuring that circularity plays a key role in Ireland’s future development. The outputs of this policy work will be highlighted at the 2023 event.

Citizen engagement spreads action

Without meaningful citizen engagement, we cannot bring circularity to life. Research conducted in 2021 revealed that only one in four Irish people have heard of the circular economy. Further statistics from the EPA show that each year, people in Ireland produced more than 14 million tonnes of waste. To address this, we must as a nation take every opportunity to raise awareness, educate the public and create communities of sustainable action so that circularity becomes the norm in our everyday lives.

Recent actions from Irish policymakers have laid the groundwork for circularity to become embedded
into the lives of Irish citizens.

Working together and contributing

Underpinning Ireland’s circular economic plans are its leading third-level institutions, business innovators, social enterprises and creative minds. Governmental support has been instrumental in driving circular economy innovation across stakeholders, particularly through the Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme. This funding scheme encourages social enterprises, voluntary organisations and businesses to contribute to Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon, circular economy.

Play your part this 2023 and beyond

We all have a role to play in Ireland’s circular transition, and Circular Economy Hotspot Dublin 2023 is a great place to start. From May 29th to June 1st, topics that are critical to the growth and development of the circular economy will be explored — including food, the built environment, social enterprise, design, manufacturing, textiles and communications. Whether you want to learn about the topic, showcase your initiatives or connect with like-minded individuals, this event is for you.