Circular economy conference keeps innovation flowing in Wales

As well as enabling networking and partnerships between academics and industry, and generating a valuable revenue stream for the universities, the CEIC programme is making a lasting impact throughout the nation by helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint and become more circular.

The event, ‘Innovations in Circular Economy: Learning from Welsh Organisations 2025’, saw more than 120 delegates come together at the principality Stadium on 18 February to make connections, learn about best practice and hear from organisations that are adopting circular economy principles to save money and the environment.

Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister of Wales and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, in his welcome video, praised the CEIC programme for its contribution to growing interest in the circular economy. He noted the many benefits of a circular economy, such as increased efficiency, reduced emissions, enhanced resilience and improved competitiveness.

“We want Welsh businesses to be ahead of the curve and competitive in a decarbonising global economy,” he said. “Wales is in a very strong position to achieve this.”

As well as a presentation from CEIC’s Dr Gary Walpole, the day also included table discussions, an engaging talk from Abi Phillips, Head of Innovation at Welsh Government, and a keynote address from BT Group’s Andy Martin.

Speaking at the event, Andy said: “It’s been such an incredible conference today, and I’m already thinking of more ways for our business to get involved in the circular economy. The biggest thing that I’ve learned is how much is already happening in Wales. There’s a real forum here for collaboration between businesses, so there’s so much more that we can do.”

The day also included a range of CEIC programme participants showcasing the circular economy challenges they’re currently working on, and hearing about the impact CEIC is having on their businesses. From Siderise, BPD Wales, Nulla Carbo Fabrica and Awen Cultural Trust, to Harlequinn Home Care, Konshush Design and Sinclair Group, it was great to hear the stories of a diverse range of CEIC’s participants and hear firsthand how the programme is making a real impact throughout Wales.

Kate Bennet from Siderise says that the CEIC programme has been critical in providing a framework for action: “As a practitioner in this field these problems can often feel overwhelming, so being able to follow a defined framework to break down the challenge into more manageable pieces has been incredibly valuable.”

CEIC was also honoured to be joined by pupils from Wick and Marcross Church in Wales Primary School, who took the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts with attendees. Following the event, the pupils sent CEIC a letter of thanks for giving them “the chance to share our ideas with individuals who have the power to create change.”

This conference was just one event in the busy CEIC calendar. Take a look at our website for updates, future events and CEIC community news, and to stay on top of the work we’re doing to promote the circular economy in Wales and position Cardiff Metropolitan University as a leader in circular innovation.