The 3rd INCIRCULAR cross-regional networking event took place on April 16, 2026, in the French city of Oyonnax, focusing on the future of circular plastics in Europe. The event, titled “The Present and Future of Circular Plastics in Europe” was hosted by the French project partner SISE SAS and brought together a wide range of stakeholders. It offered business associations, industry representatives, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and policymakers a comprehensive insight into the development and implementation of circular solutions in the plastics sector.
Through presentations and discussions, speakers highlighted the importance of connecting European regions to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. They presented concrete industrial demonstration cases, discussed opportunities for transferring and upgrading solutions across different regions and sectors, and emphasized the key role of industry, clusters, and original equipment manufacturers in scaling up innovative approaches. The event also featured six innovative projects from Spain, Slovenia, and France—recipients of INCIRCULAR cascade funding aimed at strengthening circular approaches in plastic reuse value chains.
The symposium program also showcased Slovenian expertise and project activities. TECOS and Gorenje presented a pilot INCIRCULAR project focused on extending the lifespan of plastics and closing the circular loop of industrial plastic waste at Gorenje. Adria Mobil, in turn, demonstrated an example of transferring solutions between industrial sectors by showcasing the use of Gorenje’s recycled material for manufacturing components used in their motorhomes.
The event also provided an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and exchange knowledge, both of which are crucial for the more effective introduction of circular plastic materials to the European market. Participants placed particular emphasis on identifying new opportunities for innovation, technology transfer, and their broader application in industry. The INCIRCULAR cross-regional networking event concluded with a visit to the IPC Industrial Technical Centre for Plastics and Composites (IPC Centre Technique Industriel de la Plasturgie et des Composites) and the plastics processing company Francia.
Alongside the international symposium, a meeting of the INCIRCULAR project partner consortium was also held in Oyonnax. While reviewing the project’s achievements to date, as it enters its final phase, partners aligned on key steps for its successful completion. The partner meeting also included an exploration of the industrial environment and capacities of the partner SISE SAS, further strengthening the understanding of the practical implementation of project solutions.
