Exploring Green Transitions: Co-PLAN, UBGeF, and CEA at Nordregio
Researchers from Co-PLAN, UBGeF, and CEA participated in a week-long series of discussions, reflections, and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on planning and implementing policies and solutions for a greener and more equitable future.
Kickstarting the Visit at Nordregio
The week began at Nordregio’s offices in Stockholm, where participants were introduced to the Nordregio team and gained insights into Nordic cooperation. This was followed by an in-depth seminar on “The State of the Nordic Region”, a flagship bi-annual publication that examines regional development trends across Nordic countries, regions, municipalities, and cities using the latest statistical data.
The 2024 edition presents a rich collection of maps, figures, and analyses across three key areas: demography, labor markets, and economy. It also features the Regional Potential Index, a multidimensional tool that evaluates the performance of Nordic regions across key policy domains, allowing for cross-regional comparisons.
The seminar sparked lively discussions, with participants comparing the Nordic findings to those of the Western Balkans. The dialogue emphasized shared challenges in navigating the post-pandemic era and advancing a just green transition.
Supporting Local Authorities in the Green Transition
In the afternoon, attention shifted to how local authorities can lead the green transition. The session showcased Nordic municipalities’ experiences with advancing the #SDGs, focusing on their priorities, challenges, and success factors. Notable highlights included national-level support for capacity building and fostering cooperation among municipalities to drive sustainability efforts.
The day concluded with discussions on GreenFORCE activities and deliverables. Participants shared updates on the forthcoming Joint Research Agenda on the Just Green Transition in the Western Balkans, which will outline key research priorities for the region’s quadruple helix actors. Additionally, the group explored strategies and tools for fostering macro-regional cooperation in the Western Balkans, addressing challenges, opportunities, and potential pathways for collaboration.
Insights from the Nordregio Forum 2024: “Nordics Turning Green”
On November 20–21, the team participated in the Nordregio Forum 2024 – Nordics Turning Green in Luleå. This annual event brought together decision-makers, industry leaders, and researchers to discuss actionable strategies for achieving an attractive and sustainable green transition.
The forum included study visits to regions and companies driving the green transition. One notable visit was to Boden Municipality, where innovative approaches to sustainability are transforming regional development. Participants also explored the Swedish Lapland area and its regional authority, gaining insights into how this unique region integrates green strategies into its development plans.
Highlight: Fossil-Free Steel Innovation at SSAB
A key highlight was the visit to SSAB in Luleå, Scandinavia’s largest steel sheet manufacturer. Participants toured the blast furnace, coking plant, and steelworks, witnessing SSAB’s pioneering efforts in fossil-free steel production. This visit illustrated how industrial innovation, coupled with regional collaboration, can translate sustainability goals into real-world achievements.
Inspiring Lessons for the Western Balkans
While the forum primarily focused on elevating the Nordic green transition, it offered valuable lessons for the Western Balkans. The innovative approaches, practical tools, and collaborative frameworks discussed during the event serve as a source of inspiration for advancing green development in the region.
Gratitude to Nordregio
A heartfelt thank you goes to the Nordregio team for hosting this enriching visit and for their unwavering partnership in the GreenFORCE Horizon project. Their dedication and collaboration continue to inspire our collective commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future.
