How to create new Blue KmC² Living Labs

Seize the opportunity to show a tangible commitment to create prosperous communities, contribute to sustainable living environments, drive innovation in circular practices, and align policies for long-lasting impact.

• For Governments, it's a chance to champion sustainable policies. 

• Educational institutions can lead in research and knowledge exchange. 

• NGOs contribute to community engagement and advocacy. 

• Private companies innovate and prosper. 

• Entrepreneurial networks foster startups in the circular economy. 

• Financial institutions support sustainable financing, and international organizations provide a global perspective. 

Together, those partners shape a resilient and interconnected world, realizing the full potential of each and all KmC² Living Labs across continents.

How to create a new Blue KmC² Living Lab

Demonstrate your commitment to circular excellence with tangible impact. Start by sending an email to KMC2@altercontacts.org with your organization's expression of interest

We help your team set the stage for site assessments, feasibility studies and collaborative discussions on shaping impact circular projects based on the local context. Whether you're a government setting the tone for policies, an educational institution leading in research, or a private enterprise pioneering innovation, your unique strengths are at the forefront. Together with your team, we design a tailored plan to create your own local action network, outlining roles, responsibilities and contributions of the local participating partners. Let's innovate together and make your Living Lab vision a reality!

Activities within the project framework 

At a high level, the activities of the leading partners may include:

• Living Lab Implementation: Contributing physical spaces for Living Labs, implementing circular economy projects, and participating in research initiatives.

• Research and Development: Conducting research on sustainable practices, contributing to the development of circular solutions, and collaborating on innovative projects.

• Capacity Building: Providing educational programs, workshops, and training sessions to build capacity and awareness on circular economy principles.

• Advocacy and Policy Alignment: Advocating for policies that support circular economy practices, aligning organizational strategies with circular goals, and influencing regulatory frameworks.

• Community Engagement: Engaging local communities, ensuring inclusivity, and promoting cultural and social aspects within circular economy projects.

• Financial Support: Providing funding, investments, and financial instruments to support the implementation and scalability of circular initiatives.

Typical Roles of the Partners

Government Bodies:

• • Shape sustainable policies and secure funding for circular projects, enhancing environmental resilience, economic sustainability, and creating a lasting impact on your constituents' well-being. Designate the location for Living Labs, align policies with circular economy goals, and allocate resources for initiatives.

Educational Institutions:

• • Lead cutting-edge research and knowledge exchange programs, nurturing the next generation of circular economy leaders, and contributing to innovative solutions that align with your institution's academic excellence and global impact.. Collaborate with Living Labs for academic programs, contribute to R&D initiatives, and facilitate capacity-building programs.

Non-Governmental (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations:

• • Drive community engagement and advocacy efforts aligned with circular economy principles, leveraging funding opportunities to implement impactful projects, fostering social inclusion, and making a positive difference in the communities you serve. Help implement community-based projects, and mobilize resources for specific initiatives.

Private Companies and Industries:

• • Innovate and prosper by integrating circular practices into your business models, securing funding, enhancing resource efficiency, and gaining a competitive edge in the market, contributing to a sustainable future while ensuring business growth. Participate in circular economy projects, provide expertise, and benefit from sustainable practices.

Entrepreneurial Networks:

• • Catalyze circular startups with strategic support, providing mentorship and resources to foster sustainable innovation, contributing to the growth of the circular economy and establishing your network as a key player in sustainable entrepreneurship. Connect with other Living Labs, support business incubation, and facilitate the development of circular economy-focused startups.

Financial Institutions:

• • Align financial strategies with sustainable financing opportunities, supporting circular projects that meet funding criteria and contributing to a resilient and responsible financial sector, all while enhancing your institution's reputation and impact. Play a crucial role in de-risking investments and promoting sustainable financing.

International Organizations:

• • Organizations like the United Nations and its specialized agencies, or other independent regional networks can bring global perspectives, best practices, and frameworks. They can align the Kilometro Circular initiative with international sustainability goals and provide global visibility, collaborate on global research and policy frameworks, foster international cooperation to address shared challenges, advance circular economy goals