Scottish Resources Conference begins
The Scottish Resources Conference 2014 has begun today (28 October) at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.
The two-day event, exploring the theme: ‘Evolution or revolution? Ensuring a sustainable resources industry within Scotland's green economy’ is hosted by Zero Waste Scotland and the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM).
The focus of this year’s conference centres on the role of innovation, leadership and policy with the goal of creating a circular economy.
Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland and Linda Ovens, Chair of CIWM Scottish Centre introduced the conference this morning, followed by a session with economist Frances Cairncross, who discussed industry innovation and change, and how Scotland can develop a sustainable green economy.
Other speakers set to lead session today include: Ian McAulay, Chief Executive of Viridor, and Vicente Galvin Lopez, Director of Ferrovial, who will discuss leadership in sustainable resource management; and Grant Keenan, Managing Director of Keenan Recycling, who – among other industry professionals – will talk about sustainability in Scotland’s resource industry.
Keynote speakers scheduled for tomorrow include Scottish Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead who will discuss the latest updates from the Scottish Government and its partners, and Sandy Rodger from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, who will suggest ways in which Scotland can shift to a circular economy.
Each day also includes multiple afternoon ‘breakout’ sessions for participants, that delve into ways to make better use of resources.
'Helping drive forward the circular economy agenda'
Speaking ahead of the conference, Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Scotland has an ambitious vision to be a leading nation in progressing towards a more circular economy, and this year’s event will offer a great opportunity to showcase what we’ve already achieved, as well as looking to the future and making plans to improve.
“We’ve got a great line-up of expert presenters from Scotland and further afield, and I look forward to coming together with the industry to help drive forward the circular economy agenda.”
Linda Ovens, Chair of CIWM Scotland Centre, added: “With the publication recently of the European Commission’s Circular Economy proposals, and its ambitions for higher recycling targets and further curbs on landfill, this conference will bring all the stakeholders together to map the exciting opportunities ahead.”
The event also plays host to the Scottish Resource Awards, which recognise the achievements being made in Scotland. The winners will be announced at an awards dinner tomorrow (29 October), with the presentation ceremony hosted by radio and television presenter Grant Stott.
Watch the live stream of the Scottish Resources Conference.
