The role of circular economy and bioeconomy in supporting sustainable agri-food systems to promote sustainable rural/urban development in the EU

Scope and objectives

On Tuesday 15 October (10:00 – 13:00 CEST), in line with its commitments to the Rural Pact, the European Economic and Social Committee will organise a thematic debate on the role of circular economy and bioeconomy in supporting sustainable agri-food systems to promote sustainable rural/urban development in the EU. The debate will take place during the next Joint meeting of the Sustainable Development Observatory (SDO) and the Permanent Group on Sustainable Food Systems (PG).

This event will explore how circular economy and bioeconomy can drive sustainable agri-food systems development across both rural and urban areas in the EU, through the presentation of innovative approaches that support the balanced development of rural and urban communities.

Key issues include how circular bioeconomy can:

•  revitalise rural areas, 
• boost economic opportunities, and 
• foster partnerships that strengthen rural-urban synergies.

The event brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society organisations, and practitioners, to discuss:

• how circular bioeconomy can address pressing challenges such as rural depopulation, economic inequalities, and climate change
• how governance and partnerships can leverage the development of innovative approaches in rural areas.

This event is part of the 6th Rural Pact Debate organised by the EESC, reflecting its strong commitment to a balanced and sustainable approach to rural and urban development in the EU.

This event will be webstreamed in EN-FR-IT. We invite you to follow this event through the webstreaming! ✅No registration required. Participants will be able to interact using Slido with code #RuralBioLoop

Context

The Rural Pact, stemming from the Long-term Vision for the EU's Rural Areas, is a framework for cooperation between public authorities, civil society, businesses, academia and citizens, at the European, national, regional and local level aiming at the overall well-being of rural communities. This pact acknowledges the diverse needs of these areas and endeavours to create a comprehensive framework that ensures no region or citizen is left behind.

Rural areas play a crucial role in delivering essential services, such as food production, and are vital for achieving the EU's sustainability goals. However, they continue to face specific challenges, including economic disparities, demographic shifts, and climate impacts, which necessitate a renewed focus on circular bioeconomy models to enhance resilience and foster sustainable development.

This debate, part of the #Rural Pact series, will examine these pressing issues and explore innovative strategies for leveraging circular and bioeconomy approaches to revitalize rural areas, strengthen their relationship with urban centres, and ensure equitable development that benefits all communities.

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