Title: Driving Sustainable Development: Highlights from the Final Conference and TPM5 in Valladolid, Spain
Valladolid, Spain, became a hub of sustainable development initiatives or at least of the SME Green Skills HUB project as it hosted the Final Conference and the final project partner meeting of a beacon project. The event took place at the facilities of the AEICE, the local regional cluster for efficient habitat, attracting passionate attendees eager to explore the potential of SMEs in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This article provides an overview of the agendas and key discussions held during these two impactful events.
Final International Multiplier Conference – Thursday, 15.06.2023
The day kicked off at 9:00 CET with a warm reception and networking session, setting the stage for fruitful collaborations. Carmen Devesa, director of Innovation and Internationalization of AEICE (Asociación Empresarial de Investigación Centro Tecnológico del Hábitat y la Construcción de Castilla y León) extended a hearty welcome and introduced the audience to the objectives of the event. Federico Ocampos from INFODEF (Instituto para el fomento del desarrollo y la formación) then took the stage, presenting the SME Green Skills HUB Project, highlighting its potential for driving sustainable practices within SMEs.
An engaging keynote speech on SDGs as a shared value for SMEs was delivered by Enrique M. Cobreros, director of AEICE, inspiring participants to consider the impact of their businesses on the global goals. This was followed by captivating case studies showcasing opportunities generated by the SDGs, presented by a representative from the municipality of Mojados and Marta Muelas from 1A INGENIEROS. Followed by Inmaculada García Garrandes from AENOR CyL (Asociación Española de Normalización y Certificación, Castilla y León) awarded the Certificate of Sustainability and Contribution to the SDGs, recognizing outstanding efforts in the region. AEICE concluded the conference by highlighting the key takeaways and conclusions of the day.
The multiplier conference concluded with a refreshing coffee break, fostering networking and further knowledge exchange.
TPM5 – Thursday, 15.06.2023
Right after the multiplier conference the partners of the SME Green Skills HUB project had their 5th and final partner meeting to discuss the final project phase.
The session started with INFODEF providing an update on the overall progress of the project, ensuring all participants were up to date with recent developments.
The session then delved into IO4, which focused on guidelines to promote transparency and recognition of skills necessary for implementing SDGs in SMEs. The partners engaged in a common review of the piloting phase results and discussed preparations for finalizing IO4. The Governmentship of Istanbul led the session, fostering collaborative discussions among all partners.
A brief coffee break allowed for a quick recharge before the session resumed with updates on management and dissemination activities. INFODEF provided insights into preparations for the Final Report, ensuring that project outcomes are effectively communicated and shared with relevant stakeholders. Quality and evaluation updates were then presented by Innoquality Systems, emphasizing the project’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
As the session drew to a close, all partners joined in summarizing the key findings, drawing conclusions, and discussing upcoming deadlines. The day concluded on a positive note, leaving participants energized and motivated to drive sustainable development within SMEs.
Conclusion: Empowering SMEs for Sustainable Impact
The Final Conference and final project partner meeting in Valladolid marked significant milestones in the journey toward promoting sustainable practices within SMEs. The events facilitated meaningful discussions, knowledge sharing, and collaborations among passionate individuals and organizations. Participants left with a deeper understanding of the potential of SDGs and the role SMEs play in achieving them.
The project, supported by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Commission, has paved the way for promoting transparency, recognition of skills, and sustainability within SMEs. By embracing the guidelines and sharing best practices, SMEs can become catalysts for positive change, contributing to a more sustainable future.
As the project nears its completion, the impact of these events will continue to reverberate, inspiring and empowering SMEs to align their practices with the SDGs. Valladolid has become a center of sustainable development, and the ripple effects of this project will undoubtedly extend far beyond its borders. Together, we can drive sustainable impact and create a better world for future generations.
One more time we would like to invite you to visit the project website or contact us directly.
https://smegreenskillshub.eu/
