On 16 June, the Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association (APICCAPS) will host the event 'Driving the Footwear Value Chain Towards the Bioeconomy' at the Permanent Representation of Portugal to the European Union (Av. de Cortenbergh 12, 1040 Brussels). 

The event will present the results of a Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) funded project which sought to drive the transition of the footwear value chain towards the bioeconomy. The project focused on developing new biomaterials, implementing innovative production processes and adopting advanced digital solutions.

The event will also include a panel discussion and Q&A where representatives across industry will present how their industries are adapting to the bioeconomy. The panel will feature: Marco Pellegrini, Bioeconomy Manager at CEFIC; Lorenza Romanese, Secretary General of European Bioplastics; Philippe Willems, CEO of ORINEO (Bio-based thermosetting resin manufacturer); and Luca Boltri, Vice-Director General of UNIC – Italian Tanneries.

There will also be an introduction from Mr. Thomas Van Cangh, Deputy Head of Unit for Policy strategy at DG SANTE; an explanation of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy from Wim Haentjens, head of sector for bioeconomy at DG RTD; and a conclusion delivered by Mr. Arnolds Eizensmits on behalf of Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.

Learn more and register here.