Representatives from the Centre for Research & Technology, Hellas (CERTH) and the Technological Corporation of Andalusia (CTA), partners of the VERDEinMED project, took part in the 5th in-person Community of Practice (CoP) gathering of the Innovative Sustainable Economy (ISE) Mission of the Interreg Euro-MED Programme. The event was held in Athens, Greece, from 19 to 21 May, within the framework of the 9th edition of the Circle the Med Forum.
Bringing together thematic and governance projects from across the Mediterranean region, the gathering provided a platform to exchange knowledge, strengthen cooperation and explore innovative approaches to sustainability, circular economy and regional resilience. Through high-level dialogues, thematic working groups and policy discussions, participants addressed common challenges and opportunities to accelerate the green transition across the region.
As part of the programme, VERDEinMED presented its experience in supporting the circular transition of the textile sector through international collaboration and knowledge transfer. During the session “Mentoring & Twinning Programme – Action Plans Testimonials”, Chrysovalantis Ketikidis from CERTH, together with Marion Kussmann from the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations (CEEBA), showcased the joint Mentoring & Twinning roadmap developed between both organisations.
The roadmap aims to support textile SMEs and business support organisations in Egypt in adopting circular economy practices through ecosystem diagnosis and stakeholder mapping, capacity-building activities, mentoring, knowledge transfer, and the replication of innovative circular textile solutions. The initiative also seeks to promote long-term institutional cooperation and policy integration among Mediterranean stakeholders.
The presentation highlighted the value of transnational cooperation in strengthening circular textile ecosystems, facilitating the transfer of practical expertise and creating new opportunities for sustainable business development across the Mediterranean.
In addition, VERDEinMED actively contributed to the Thematic Working Groups on Resource Valorisation, exchanging experiences with other Interreg Euro-MED projects and exploring synergies to maximise the impact and uptake of circular economy solutions throughout the region.
