Mayo Ideas Month features groundbreaking Circular Economy Conference
A SIGNIFICANT new conference focused on the circular economy and social enterprise will take place in the Great National Hotel Ballina next week (Friday, October 24) as part of Mayo Ideas Month.
The Mayo Circular Conference 2025 will bring together community leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and researchers to explore how circular economy principles can drive sustainable development and social impact in rural Ireland.
The event is hosted by South West Mayo and Mayo North East Development Companies in collaboration with the Mayo Social Enterprise Network.
“This conference is about empowering communities to lead the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy,” said Anne Finn, social inclusion manager, Mayo North East. “We want to showcase the innovation already happening in Mayo and across Ireland, and inspire new collaborations that put people and the planet first.”
The opening address is by Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Small Business and Retail and Circular Economy at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment. High profile speakers include Claire Downey (CEO of The Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun, Dublin) and Sarah Daly (executive director, Creative Spark, Dundalk) as well as Kevin Swift (regional co-ordinator, Connacht Ulster Regional Waste Office), Ian Brannigan (head of regional development, Western Development Commission), and Anne Graham, community and green finance manager, Western Development Commission.
“I recently launched a public consultation on Ireland’s Second Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy,” said Minister Dillon. “The strategy includes a comprehensive programme of actions to build on the progress we have already made in shaping Ireland’s circular future.
“Local communities are a key part of this and that’s why I’m delighted to be opening the Mayo Circular Conference 2025 as part of Mayo Ideas Month. I’m looking forward to seeing the insights from the businesses, communities, and individuals taking part.”
The event is expected to attract a wide range of participants, including representatives from local authorities, social enterprises, environmental NGOs, academic institutions and EU policy bodies. It aligns with Ireland’s national Circular Economy Strategy and the EU’s Green Deal objectives.
The conference includes discussions and interactive workshops as well as local success stories and grassroots initiatives.
An exhibition area will feature many stands, including Ballina Costume Centre, EDI - Revamp Centre (Longford, Creative Spark (Dundalk, Rediscovery Centre (Dublin), Climate Action Louisburgh Locality, Bounce Back (Galway), and MTU Circular Bioeconomy Cluster and Empowering Communities Programme.
Demand for tickets has been very high. Attendance is free of charge but pre-registration through Eventbrite is essential. See mayoideasmonth.ie for more information.