Round Table at Strategica Conference "Integrating Circular and Social Economy Models: Innovative Pathways for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth"
This round table, co-organized with the Center for Leadership and Innovation from SNSPA, will explore the intersection of circular economy principles and social entrepreneurship, focusing on how these integrated models can drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Participants will delve into practical examples and theoretical frameworks of circular business models, examine the role of social economy initiatives, and discuss opportunities for collaboration between businesses and social entrepreneurs. This discussion is particularly relevant for policymakers, academics, and practitioners interested in innovative strategies that address environmental sustainability and social equity.
Location: National University of Political Science and Public Administration, 30A Expoziției Boulevard, 4th floor, Room 410.
Agenda:
9:00 – 9:10
Welcome:
Speaker: Anca Elena Bălășoiu
Introduction to the event's theme and highlighting the importance of circular and social economies in the context of sustainable and inclusive growth.
9:10 – 9:30
Speakers Interventions (5 minutes each)
- Laura Petrescu
Topic: "Legal Frameworks for Circular Economy Implementation in Romania" - Raul Pop
Topic: "Bridging Theory and Practice: Real-World Applications of Circular Economy Principles" - Lorita Constantinescu
Topic: "Integrated Solutions: Social and Circular Economy Business Models That Work" - Ioana Petrescu
Topic: "Circular Economy in Space: Expanding Sustainable Practices Beyond Earth"
9:30 – 10:00
Speakers' Discussion
Half an hour of interactive dialogue among all speakers, exploring the topics presented in more detail, discussing synergies between circular and social economies, and identifying opportunities for collaboration.
10:00 – 10:30
QA from the Audience
The audience will have the opportunity to ask questions to the speakers, clarify discussed aspects, and contribute to the conversation about circular and social economy models..
Speakers' Biographies:
1. Laura Petrescu
Laura Petrescu is a managing lawyer with extensive experience in environmental law and public policy. Her legal background includes a Master’s degree in Internal and International Environmental Law and a diploma in English Law. As a Climate Pact Ambassador, she works on advancing sustainability through legal expertise and advocacy.
2. Raul Pop
Named the Sustainability Personality of the Year 2024 in Romania by The Diplomat Bucharest, Raul Pop is the co-founder of the Coalition for the Circular Economy (CERC), Program Director at the ECOTECA Association, an associate professor at ASE Bucharest, and has twice served as the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Environment (2016, 2021). He has also been an advisor to environment ministers, with responsibilities in waste management, air quality, climate change, and coordination of national authorities (ANPM, GNM, AFM). Raul assists companies and public institutions in enhancing the coherence and positive impact of their activities.
3. Lorita Constantinescu
Lorita Constantinescu has three decades of experience in management and civil society development across Romania and Central-Eastern Europe. As Deputy General Manager of Ateliere Fara Frontiere, she has been a key advocate for circular economy principles. Her background includes a Master’s degree in Public Policy and MBA Certificate, with extensive experience in integrating disadvantaged individuals into the workforce through innovative enterprises.
4. Ioana Petrescu
Ioana Petrescu heads the Center for Leadership and Innovation at SNSPA in Bucharest. She is also the President of Pur si Simplu Verde and an EU Climate Pact Ambassador. Her expertise spans space economics and environmental policy, supported by her previous roles as Romania's finance minister and various academic appointments.
Moderator:
Anca Elena Bălășoiu
Anca Elena Balasoiu is a Partner at BRP Lawyers in Bucharest, specializing in litigation and various areas of law and a researcher at the Center for Leadership and Innovation. She has been serving as an EU Climate Pact Ambassador since December 2023, working to promote sustainable practices across Europe. Additionally, Anca has been actively involved with the environmental NGO Pur si Simplu Verde since January 2022, focusing on climate action and advocacy. Her educational background includes a Ph D. în Juridical Science, a Master’s degree in Business Law from Romanian American University and a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the same institution. Anca’s multifaceted experience in legal practice and environmental advocacy equips her with a unique perspective for moderating discussions on integrating circular and social economy models.
You can register online until October 24. See below.