KARMA's 5th online learning event (WG4)
On February 25th, 2025, Circular Flanders (BE), partner in the KARMA project, hosted the first workshop organized by Working Group 4: Governance of Climate Plans and Circular Economy Strategies. The event brought together researchers and local authorities to explore governance models that facilitate the implementation of circular economy principles and climate action at different governmental levels.
The session aimed to address the critical role of governance in developing, implementing, and monitoring climate plans and circular economy strategies. Discussions focused on how different levels of government can collaborate effectively and the challenges of policy integration.
- Judith Geiser (City of Mannheim) presented Mannheim’s Local Green Deal, an initiative launched in 2019 to drive climate action through strong multi-stakeholder engagement. With Mannheim’s ambitious goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2030, she highlighted how governance structures can facilitate cooperation between municipalities, businesses, and citizens in implementing circular economy strategies.
- Michiel Pauwels (PhD Researcher, VITO & KU Leuven) discussed the role of different governance levels in advancing circular cities. His presentation focused on monitoring local sustainable energy and climate action plans in Flanders (BE), highlighting the crucial role of intermediate governance structures in effectively implementing climate policies at a municipal level.
This workshop fostered a dynamic exchange on policy integration, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative approaches that strengthen the governance of circular economy strategies. Participants engaged in discussions about overcoming policy barriers, improving cooperation among stakeholders, and implementing effective monitoring systems to track progress toward the goals of the circular economy.
By bringing together experts and decision-makers, this event reinforced KARMA’s commitment to supporting sustainable urban governance and advancing the circular economy across European regions.
Author: Lead partner (Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg)