Within the framework of the AL-INVEST Verde Construction project “Articulation and development of sustainable business models led by MSMEs for the construction sector“, an initiative that seeks to benefit small and medium-sized enterprises and business organisations in the sector to develop sustainable business models, the Eurecat Technology Centre together with the Eurochile Business Foundation have carried out International Seminars in three regions of the country.

MSMEs from Osorno, Los Lagos and the Metropolitan Region have benefited from these activities, specifically focused on the circular economy in construction, where Frederic Clarens, Director of the Waste, Energy and Impact Unit, Cristian Riquelme, Advanced Researcher of the Environmental Impact Unit, both representatives of Eurecat, have been in charge of guiding the participants on the benefits and duties of transforming the construction industry by implementing the Circular Economy.

The third International Seminar, held on 30 May at the Chilean-European Business Centre of the Eurochile Business Foundation, was attended by Ivonne Palma, director of the Eurochile Sustainability and Circular Economy Area, who presented the opportunities presented by sustainable and circular practices in the business environment and invited the small and medium-sized enterprises present to participate and be part of the project and its activities during the 30 months of implementation.

During the meeting, experts shared various strategies and solutions applied in different parts of Europe, such as the implementation of solar panels, the use of recycled materials and the reuse of water in construction processes. They also emphasised the importance of collaboration between different actors in the construction sector and the need for long-term planning to achieve an effective transition to sustainability.

In summary, the implementation of sustainable practices in construction is high on the current agenda of the business sector, and these workshops have been an opportunity for attendees to learn first-hand about the benefits of moving towards a Circular Economy. Undoubtedly, the seminars have been a key opportunity to continue advancing in the search for innovative and sustainable solutions to transform the construction industry.

About AL-INVEST Verde

AL-INVEST Verde is a European Union (EU) programme whose main objective is to promote sustainable growth and job creation in Latin America by supporting the transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient and more circular economy. Through Component 1, led by sequa, the programme manages funds for the implementation of innovative small business partnership projects to boost sustainable practices in the private sector.

Further information: www.alinvest-verde.eu