Ostrava, [18.12.2024] – The Ministry of the Environment has approved the CirkArena project, a key initiative to promote the circular economy in the Moravian-Silesian Region. The project, which is funded by the Operational Programme Just Transformation (OP ST), represents a significant step towards sustainable development and regeneration of the region.
The CirkArena project will bring new life to the former ice rink in Třinec. This dilapidated site will be turned into a modern centre for circular economy research, linking scientific, research and industrial activities. The aim is to create a space where innovations aimed at efficient use of materials, waste reduction and technological advances in sustainability will be developed.
The main promoter of the project is the research company Materials and Metallurgical Research (MMV), the members of the research consortium are also, for example, the University of Mining and Metallurgy, Czech Technical University in Prague, UTB Zlín, Institute of Chemical Processes of the Academy of Sciences, INCIEN and the Statutory City of Třinec.
“I am glad that many months of work on the preparation of the project have finally come to an end. Hundreds and thousands of hours of work and negotiations with partnerswere behind it . I greatly appreciate all those who contributed to this historic success, my colleagues from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the project partners and our colleagues from the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Environment. Now the hard part begins, namely to successfully launch the project, implement it and create a circular hub of European importance in our region”, said Jakub Švrček, Executive Director of MMV.
CirkArena will not only revive an abandoned sports complex, but will also become an example of how a region can face the challenges of transformation. Thanks to funding from OP ST and support from the European Union, the Moravian-Silesian Region is moving closer to a sustainable and innovative future.
The Operational Programme Just Transition is a European Union instrument that supports the regions most affected by the transition to a low-carbon economy. In the Czech Republic, it is primarily focused on the Moravian-Silesian, Ústí nad Karlovy Vary regions and aims to create new jobs, promote innovation and reduce the socio-economic impact of the transition on local people.
The circular economy replaces the traditional “make-use-dispose” model with a system where materials are reused. This approach reduces the burden on the environment and brings new economic opportunities that have the potential to improve life in the region.
