One of Europe’s most influential gatherings on circular economy policy took centre stage this year, as the ECESP Annual Conference 2026 brought together a high-level mix of policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, financial actors, and civil society representatives to chart the next steps in Europe’s transition towards circularity. Held under the theme “A competitive and fair circular Europe: The ambition at the heart of the single market”, the event made clear that circular economy ambition is now firmly embedded in Europe’s industrial and regulatory agenda.

The conference served as a critical forum for aligning perspectives across sectors, addressing how circularity can be made not only environmentally sound but also economically competitive and socially equitable within the European single market. Discussions ranged from regulatory frameworks and investment priorities to the role of innovation and cross-sector collaboration in accelerating the shift away from linear models.

IDENER.AI was among the participants, with Alejandra Pita Milleiro attending and contributing to the exchange. Her presence reflects IDENER.AI’s ongoing commitment to engaging with the European policy landscape and positioning its portfolio of Horizon Europe research projects at the intersection of scientific innovation and real-world circular economy transitions.

For IDENER.AI, events like the ECESP Annual Conference are more than networking opportunities. They are a chance to connect project-level research with the broader European ambition, ensuring that the work carried out across initiatives in circular bioeconomy, sustainable materials, and data-driven manufacturing contributes meaningfully to the systemic change Europe is building towards.