NEWS: CAROUSEL project partners explored upcycling legislative, business, and socio-economic environments

On 23 May 2025, the CAROUSEL project hosted a vibrant online training session, organized by UZOR and implemented by IMP, BISTRA, and external circular economy consultants Tijana Sekulić and Miodrag Kostić. The training brought together partners and stakeholders from across the ADRION region to deepen knowledge and share best practices in upcycling and circular entrepreneurship.

The session opened with a powerful metaphor—Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, symbolizing how upcycling gives new life and value to discarded materials. Consultants highlighted how upcycling stands out among circular strategies by combining sustainability with creativity, economic potential, and social impact.

Key Highlights:

🔹 Legislation & Policy Insights:
The training unpacked the evolving EU legal framework, including the updated Waste Framework Directive, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, and the Digital Product Passport under the Eco-Design for Sustainable Products Regulation. These changes provide fertile ground for upcycling initiatives across the region.

🔹 Upcycling in Practice – BISTRA Ptuj:
BISTRA’s team showcased StudioKroG, a pioneering upcycling hub built from repurposed shipping containers. This hub models full-cycle reuse—from collection to redesign and production. BISTRA also shared tools like the 3R app and highlighted how it engages municipalities, NGOs, and citizens to co-create circular solutions.

🔹 Socio-Economic Impact:
The session emphasized how upcycling empowers local economies—creating green jobs, preserving traditional crafts, and offering opportunities for social enterprises and marginalized groups. Real-life examples included artisan fashion brand Marija Handmade and repair networks like RepaNet in Austria.

🔹 Actionable Tools:
Participants explored frameworks like the Value Proposition Canvas to design circular business models aligned with community needs, and engaged in interactive exercises on reducing food waste and rethinking product design.

As upcycling becomes central to Europe’s green transition, this training helped equip CAROUSEL partners with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration needed to lead locally and connect globally.

Together, we’re not just reducing waste—we’re designing a future where materials, people, and ideas circulate with purpose.