Stakeholder Meeting in Central Greece

On March 5, 2025, a stakeholder meeting was held in the Region of Central Greece to present the RAW4RES project and its significance for the region. In this meeting, findings from the project’s recent meetings in Slovenia were discussed as well. The event gathered key representatives from academia, industry, and regional governance, including:

• The Head of the Laboratory of Chemistry and Materials Technology, National and Kapodistrial University of Athens
• The President of the Regional Council for Research and Innovation
• The General Manager of Bentonite & Perlite Intermediates at Imerys
• A representative from Metlen Energy & Metals
• Representatives from the Chamber of Commerce of Fthiotis
• The Regional Director of Education for Central Greece

Key Discussions and Insights

During the meeting the management and exploitation of critical raw materials to support the development of green technologies and achieve sustainable development goals were highlighted. The discussions that followed covered the following topics among others:

• Opportunities and challenges in raw materials management for Central Greece.
• Legislation and policy strategies for sustainable resource utilization.
• Findings from the meeting in Slovenia, where best practices and innovative approaches to raw material sustainability were shared.
• The importance of recycling and circular economy principles in ensuring the sustainable exploitation of resources.

Policy Proposals and Future Steps

Participants underscored the need to strengthen collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and educational institutions to enhance sustainability efforts. Key conclusions included:

• Promoting education and training in green technologies to build local expertise and support economic growth.
• Developing strategies to minimize the environmental footprint of industrial activities.
• Establishing an information center for geological resources in the region.
• Encouraging the use of "urban mines" and "side streams" to manage secondary materials and boost recycling initiatives.

A Step Forward for Green Innovation

The RAW4RES project is a vital initiative for advancing green technology development, supporting sustainable raw material exploitation, and strengthening the local industry. By fostering innovation and collaboration, Central Greece is taking significant strides toward a more sustainable and resilient future.

Stay connected for more updates on the RAW4RES project and its impact!