Technology

Circular economy at Scottish Resources Conference

Scottish Resources Conference

Resource efficiency and the opportunities for creating a circular economy will be the lead topics of discussion at the Scottish Resources Conference this year. 

Running from 2-3 October at the Glasgow Hilton Hotel, the twelfth annual conference will see policy makers, industry representatives and other professionals from the waste and resources industry discuss topics such as how to better utilise resources in a ‘cradle-to-cradle’ approach, what the likely impact of the Scottish Independence Referendum will be on the sector, the question of recycling value versus volume, and new business models that can help to deliver a circular economy. 

Keynote speakers for the annual event include circular economy pioneer and founder and Director of the Geneva Association, Walter Stahel,  and EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik (via videolink). 

According to organisers Zero Waste Scotland (ZWS) and the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), Potocnik is likely to stress that the economy and the environment can no longer be viewed separately.

The conference will also feature further insight on Scotland’s zero waste ambitions and the new waste regulations (which requires all business in Scotland to separate recycling by 1 January 2014) from Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead MSP. Other key speakers will include Chief Executive of WRAP Liz Goodwin and the Head of Zero Waste Policy at the Scottish Government Stuart Greig.

Speaking of the event, Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland, said:  “Scotland is positioning itself in the vanguard of efforts to develop a more circular economy, so this is a great opportunity to learn from international experts as well as showcasing the great work already underway in Scotland.  It’s important that we bring a wide audience together to drive this agenda forward, from retailers, manufacturers, product designers, councils and resource management firms.”

Linda Ovens, Chair of CIWM Scotland Centre, added: “This year’s event will look at the key themes affecting our stakeholders as we work together to deliver the aspirations of Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan. We are delighted to have once again attracted such a strong line-up of speakers, particularly the opportunity to hear from influential figures such as Janez Potoznik and Walter Stahel who are leading and shaping the debate at an international level.”

Read more information or book to attend the Scottish Resources Conference 2013.