As sustainability becomes a cornerstone of modern economic policy, the urgency for comprehensive frameworks to address climate change grows. The upcoming Barcelona New Economy Week (BNEW) is set to highlight this critical intersection of sustainability and economic innovation. How will this event shape the future of sustainable business practices in a rapidly evolving global landscape?
In recent years, sustainability has gained significant traction in Spain, both at the government level and within the private sector. Initiatives have emerged that align with the 2030 Agenda and the European Green Deal, marking a commitment to a more sustainable economic model. A prime example is the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law, which aims for climate neutrality by 2050. This legislation mandates large companies to develop decarbonization plans, enhance transparency regarding environmental impacts, and encourage sustainable investments. These efforts are reflected in Spain’s rising status in the global renewable energy landscape, where it now ranks ninth in attractiveness for renewable energy investments, according to the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index (RECAI).
Despite these positive developments, achieving the ambitious goals set forth in the 2030 Agenda will require ongoing collaboration between governmental bodies and the private sector. A report by the United Nations Global Compact, in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Rights and the 2030 Agenda, reveals that nine out of ten Spanish companies believe there should be stricter regulations in specific areas related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that encompass all economic sectors to drive sustainability forward.
Barcelona’s New Economy Week: A Platform for Sustainable Innovation
The Barcelona New Economy Week (BNEW) represents a significant step towards integrating sustainability into the fabric of the new economy. Scheduled from September 29 to October 2, the event will take place at DFactory Barcelona, an international reference point for Industry 4.0. This unique venue symbolizes the convergence of collaborative innovation, cutting-edge technology, and transformative ideas. BNEW is designed to foster an environment where business leaders, policymakers, and innovators can explore sustainability’s role in shaping the future economy.
During the four-day event, BNEW will feature approximately 320 speakers from both national and international backgrounds, offering 100 hours of content across 66 panels, debates, and sessions. The hybrid format ensures that participants can engage remotely, allowing for a global audience to access this critical dialogue. Registered users will have the opportunity to network through a dedicated digital platform, where they can exchange messages, contacts, and schedule meetings with other attendees.
Pere Navarro, the special State delegate at the Consortium of the Free Zone of Barcelona (CZFB), emphasizes the importance of events like BNEW in addressing the current and future challenges posed by digitalization, technological revolution, and sustainability. This gathering is poised to illuminate the pathways that businesses can take to navigate these complex issues and emerge as leaders in sustainable practices.
Key Themes and Sectors at BNEW
BNEW will connect seven pivotal sectors of the new economy: Digital Industry, Aviation, Sustainability, Mobility, Talent, Health, and Experience. The event aims to establish itself as a reference point for discussions around pioneering advancements and new technologies applied across various fields, including health and aviation. Specifically, the sessions dedicated to Sustainability, Mobility, and Talent will take place on September 29 and 30, while sessions on Digital Industry, Health, and Aviation will occur on October 1 and 2.
The Sustainability vertical is set to be one of the most significant themes at BNEW, tackling issues such as climate resilience, bioeconomy and innovation, infrastructure, investment and technology for the energy of tomorrow, and sustainability as a key driver of business competitiveness. Topics will also include innovations in agriculture, green purpose-driven smart factories, and the role of startups in advancing the SDGs.
Leading the Sustainability vertical is Ibercaja, which reaffirms its commitment to the initiative as a sponsor. Myriam Santos-Morán Torrens, the Mediterranean Arc Regional Director of Ibercaja, emphasizes that the bank’s involvement stems from its dedication to helping stakeholders adapt to the current economic, social, and technological landscape. Ibercaja is focused on guiding individuals, families, businesses, and society towards a more humane, sustainable, and collaborative economy through innovation and technological advances.
Registration and Participation at BNEW
The integration of innovative technologies and sustainable practices is critical for navigating the challenges of today’s economy. BNEW represents not just a gathering of ideas, but a movement towards actionable solutions that can shape the future of business in a sustainable direction. As organizations continue to grapple with the realities of climate change and resource scarcity, initiatives like BNEW will play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and inspiring systemic change.
Ultimately, the convergence of various sectors at BNEW will not only facilitate knowledge sharing but also encourage the development of sustainable practices that can be implemented across industries. By emphasizing the interconnectedness of sustainability and economic growth, BNEW stands poised to be a pivotal moment for businesses looking to thrive in the new economy while contributing positively to society and the environment.