7th Edition of the Plastics and Circular Economy Conference - European Green Capital 2024 - València

València European Green Capital 2024 continues to establish itself as a benchmark in sustainability and circular economy.

As part of the 7th Edition of the Plastics and Circular Economy Conference, organized by AIMPLAS, the General Director of València European Green Capital 2024, Antonio García Celda, shared the vision and initiatives that the city is implementing to lead the transition towards a more sustainable model.

During his participation in the roundtable discussion Advances in Circularity and Decarbonization: A 360º Approach, García Celda emphasized the importance of shared responsibility among administrations, businesses, and citizens to achieve climate and environmental goals. “Circularity and decarbonization are essential pillars for building more resilient cities. In València, we are proving that economic progress can be compatible with respect for the planet,” he stated.

Circular Economy: A Key Pillar of the Green Capital

In his speech, García Celda highlighted that the European Green Capital title is not just a recognition but a real commitment to sustainability. In this regard, he mentioned some of the initiatives that València is developing:

• Reuse of materials in public works, turning waste into resources and minimizing environmental impact.
• Selective waste collection programs in neighborhoods and local markets, promoting a culture of recycling based on proximity.
• Public-private collaboration in eco-design projects, aiming to reduce CO₂ emissions from the design phase of products.

“The concept of a 360º approach goes beyond recycling, addressing all stages of a product’s life cycle. From eco-design to efficient waste management, we must promote comprehensive solutions that minimize the environmental footprint,” explained García Celda.

A Call for Collective Action

During his speech, the Director of València European Green Capital 2024 also highlighted the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving true transformation. “All of this requires a vision that goes beyond individual interests and fosters a shared, more sustainable future,” he remarked before introducing the roundtable discussion with experts in circularity and decarbonization.

The City Council of València continues to invest in sustainability with concrete initiatives that position the city at the forefront of the circular economy. “We will continue working to establish ourselves as a model of reference, demonstrating that change is possible and that we can lead a greener future,” concluded García Celda.