Barcelona’s Exponential Day 2024: Disruption & Circularity for Climate Action

ACCIÓ - Catalonia Trade & Investment recently celebrated Exponential Day 2024 in Barcelona, bringing together a passionate audience about disruptive innovation and exploring how the circular economy can address climate change. At the event, the ten most disruptive Catalan companies in 2024 received the award 'Catalonia Exponential Leaders' for their ability to impact society and achieve exponential growth.

“We need the policy makers to fast make the right policies, the entrepreneurs to step in, and the consumers to show demand for circular products”

Harald Friedl, Global Circular Economist & Senior UN Adviser

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Keynote Speaker: Harald Friedl on Circular Economy

Harald Friedl, a renowned circular economist and adviser to the United Nations, was the keynote speaker. Friedl specializes in guiding countries, cities, and businesses in transitioning from a linear to a circular economy. He emphasized that adopting a circular economy is crucial for achieving climate goals, fostering societal well-being, and creating sustainable, local jobs.

Friedl highlighted that companies must embrace circular economy practices to secure their future and attract top talent. He envisions an economy where people connect and share a common vision, driving collective progress.

Game-Changing Technologies for a Circular Economy

Emerging technologies are set to revolutionize the circular economy, with the Internet of Things (IoT) playing a pivotal role. IoT enables sensors and data to track materials within urban environments. "This data can build platforms for actionable insights", Friedl explained. Additionally, artificial intelligence can innovate new, biodegradable materials, scaling sustainable solutions in unprecedented ways.

The future of Circular Economy in cities

Harald Friedl advocates for cities like Barcelona to chart a clear path toward implementing circular economy strategies across various sectors, including construction, transport, and textiles. He urged policymakers to make decisive moves towards a sustainable future, entrepreneurs to lead by example, and consumers to demand circular products. "It's feasible to create opportunities for all of us to flourish together", Friedl asserted.