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Thursday, 18 January 2024

7th Circle the Med Forum in Athens

The EPLO Circular Economy and Climate Institute organizes the 7th Edition of the Circle the Med Forum, the par excellence climate and environmental diplomacy forum which will take place on January 18 and 19, 2024 in the city of Athens. Set against the backdrop of the European Public Law Organization in Plaka and the iconic Acropolis Museum, this strategic gathering comes in the wake of COP28 and ahead of the 2024 European elections. Political leaders, policymakers, and experts will converge to deliberate on the critical issues of climate change, circular economy and environmental compliance.

At its core, Circle the MED stands as a beacon for climate, energy and environmental diplomacy, championing the vision of a "Circular Mediterranean." The focus remains resolute - advocating for circular economy models that facilitate a seamless energy transition and carbon neutrality across the broader Mediterranean, South-East Europe, and the Black Sea region.

For more information about the programme, please visit the Forum's website.

Registrations here. 

Key Themes and Objectives:

The aftermath of COP28 sets the stage for the forum to become a platform of experiences and best practices, fostering collaboration towards innovative governance models in addressing climate change challenges. Delving into the practical aspects of applying the European Green Deal, participants will explore ways to translate these initiatives into actionable strategies on the ground. Moreover, Circle the Med aspires to serve as a think tank, providing a space for stakeholders to strategize on achieving a more sustainable and circular future for the Mediterranean, fostering cooperation between nations and regions.



Distinguished Speakers:

In addition to the esteemed lineup of speakers, this year's Forum is honored to welcome Mr. Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection of Greece, Mr. Charis Doukas, the Mayor of Athens, Ms. Miriam Dalli, Minister of Environment and Energy of Malta, Mr. Francesco Corvaro, Special Envoy for Climate Change of Italy, H.E. Ms. Laurence Auer, Ambassador of France, H.E. Mr. Matthew James Lodge, Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Dr. Petros Himonas, Permanent Secretary of the Shipping Deputy Ministry of Cyprus, Mr. Petros Varelidis, Secretary General for Natural Environment and Water, Ministry of Environment & Energy, Mr. George Hatzimarkos, Governor of South Aegean, overseeing the Region of Cyclades and Dodecanese island groups, important personalities of the European Commission, such as Mr. Aurel Ciobanu-Dordea, Director for Circular Economy of DG Environment, Mrs. Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Mrs. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director General for Energy, among others.

Circle the Med Forum continues its commitment to building bridges between the North and South shores of the Mediterranean and between the East and West. This is achieved through fostering collaboration via networking, best practices, exchanges, and twinning activities. This year’s edition will also cover the Black Sea and its links with the Mediterranean.