Follow-up report: 6th Upper Austria Youth Climate Summit „Re: Think – Re: Use – Re: Design“

At the 6th Upper Austria Youth Climate Summit: „Re:Think – Re:Use – Re:Design“ At JKU Linz, the Circular Economy Forum Austria, represented by a member of its executive board, Elena Stelzig, take part in an exciting panel discussion. Together with around 200 enthusiastic young people, there was an in-depth discussion about the future of the circular economy.

The circular economy is much more than just recycling

The key message of the discussion was clear: a genuine circular economy means designing products and materials from the outset in such a way that they can be used for as long as possible, repaired, reused and ultimately returned to new cycles in a high-quality form.

In practical terms, this means the following for businesses:

• To completely rethink products and use resources efficiently.
• To strengthen partnerships throughout the entire value chain.
• To recognise innovation as the key to a sustainable economy.

Shaping the future actively – The role of young people

For young people, the circular economy means, above all, the Playing an active part in shaping the future. It’s not about living a perfectly sustainable life, but about staying curious, contributing your own ideas and taking responsibility – whether as future entrepreneurs, developers, designers, decision-makers or conscious consumers.

A strong focus: women in technology and innovation

Another key focus of the discussion was the role of Women in Technology, Innovation and the Circular Economy. The transition to a circular economy requires a diverse range of perspectives, because genuine innovation arises where different experiences and skills come together. That is why we need greater visibility, role models and encouragement for girls and women to contribute their ideas and talents to future technologies.

A heartfelt thank you to the Upper Austria Climate Alliance for the invitation, to the presenter Coco Saal for the inspiring discussion, and to all the panellists. A special thank you goes to the many committed young people for their thought-provoking questions, their optimism and their tremendous commitment to a sustainable future!