On Saturday, 5 July, a panel discussion on the circular economy took place in FUTUREUM, right in the heart of the Beats for Love festival. The event showed that even at a music festival it is possible to speak openly and engagingly about key topics of sustainability and innovation.
The debate was moderated by influencer and journalist Jitka Nováčková, who skilfully connected expert insights with the personal stories of the guests, creating an inspiring atmosphere for a lively discussion.
In addition to presenting the CirkArena project – a pioneering research and development centre in Třinec that transforms industrial residues into new resources – the discussion focused on the importance of research, innovation, and public involvement in the circular economy. The panel also included the perspectives of institutions seeking new pathways to sustainable production and consumption. Topics included legislative challenges, the support municipalities need to implement circular principles, and the importance of educating young people about sustainability and innovation. Inspiring stories were also shared about how abandoned buildings can be brought back to life with respect for history and a vision for the future.
Panel participants:
- Radana Leistner Kratochvílová | Ministry of the Environment – Just Transition Operational Programme
- Petr Janoš | MATERIÁLOVÝ A METALURGICKÝ VÝZKUM s.r.o. – CirkArena
- Michal Šyc | Institute of Chemical Processes of the Czech Academy of Sciences
- Michaela Kloudová | INCIEN – Institute of Circular Economy
- Michaela Doskočilová | JRK Czech Republic
- Jakub Mastík | NAVZDORY
- Antonín Šimčík | SOBIC
We thank everyone who joined and contributed to the rich discussion. The CirkArena project – and the circular economy in general – hold great potential to transform the world around us, and we are glad to bring this conversation beyond traditional conference spaces.
