GPP2ADRION presented during URBACT study visit in Maribor

During a recent URBACT study visit in Maribor, the GPP2ADRION project and its Capacity Building Programme on Green Public Procurement were presented to an international group of participants from across the Western Balkans and the Adriatic region.

The presentation took place within a broader discussion on Education for Sustainable Development, bringing together representatives of municipalities, public utilities and development organisations from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania.

The session highlighted the role of Green Public Procurement as a practical instrument for advancing circular economy principles and sustainability goals in public institutions. Participants were invited to join the newly launched GPP2ADRION Capacity Building Programme, designed to support public authorities and practitioners in integrating environmental criteria into procurement processes.

The exchange also created an opportunity to connect two European cooperation frameworks – Interreg IPA Adrion and Interreg URBACT – demonstrating how regional projects can reinforce each other by sharing knowledge, networks and practical tools.

The discussion confirmed the growing interest across the region in circular and green public procurement, particularly among cities and public service providers seeking concrete solutions for implementing sustainability objectives in everyday operations.

By connecting stakeholders and initiatives across countries and programmes, GPP2ADRION contributes to building a transnational community of practice for sustainable procurement in the Adriatic–Ionian region.

Circular Change continues to support the project through its role as a connector and facilitator, bringing together partners, institutions and practitioners to strengthen knowledge exchange and accelerate the uptake of circular economy solutions.

Lucija Marovt presenting the Capacity Building programme in Maribor.