Welcome to the first edition of the re:gen-u e-zine. In this issue we set the scene for the project: What is re:gen-u and what does it hope to achieve? What is a regenerative economy? What role does higher education play in transitioning to such an economic model? As well as presenting some preliminary insights from the projects investigation phase.

Driving Regeneration and Innovation: Introducing Our Partners

Introducing our partners for the re:gen-u project. From venerable institutions like Trinity College Dublin, and newer universities like Münster University of Applied Sciences, to research facilities like BETA Technological Centre, each partner brings with them their unique expertise and perspectives to contribute to the holistic approach of the project.

Introduction to the re:gen-u Project

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, higher education institutions (HEIs) stand at the forefront of driving transformative change towards a regenerative economy. The re:gen-u initiative strives to harness the potential of HEIs in spearheading a regenerative economy. re:gen-u envisions a paradigm shift where academia, business, government, and society converge to foster entrepreneurial mindsets, cultivate essential technology skills, and facilitate cross-sector collaboration.

Collaborating for Change in the Transition to a Regenerative Economy

Amidst the urgency of climate change, the regenerative economy offers a promising path forward, with environmental, social, and economic benefits. It is necessary that universities, businesses, and governments are play pivotal roles in this transformation. In the face of looming challenges, a collective mindset shift is imperative, necessitating imaginative policy-making, transformative education, and a redefined private sector. By embracing regenerative principles, these entities can drive a sustainable future, ushering in a new era of collaborative action and qualitative growth.

Three Essential Skills for Developing Entrepreneurial Solutions for a Regenerative Economy

This article explores three pivotal skills for crafting entrepreneurial solutions for a regenerative economy. As we confront climate change and resource scarcity, adapting our approach becomes paramount. Discover how systems thinking, collaboration, and value-focused mindset drive impactful change toward a regenerative future. In essence, honing these skills equips us to address imminent challenges and actively shape a regenerative future.

Rethinking the Economic Model: The Need for Credibility and Proof of Concept

This article delves into reshaping economic paradigms, spotlighting the quest for credibility in regenerative economies. Through insightful conversations with ROLE’s Jean-Jacques Cousineau, IMTBS explores the collaborative dynamics of academia, industry, and government in forging regenerative economy as a powerful alternative to our GDP-growth centric economy. From grassroots collaborations to higher education’s role in research and governmental support, discover the multifaceted drive to validate and implement regenerative models for a sustainable future.

The Rediscovery Centre: Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy

Explore Dublin’s pioneering circular economy exemplar – the Rediscovery Centre. Uniting creativity, sustainability, and resourcefulness, this center champions a regenerative ethos. Through diverse initiatives, from Rediscover Fashion to Rediscover Cycling, discarded materials find new life while nurturing skills for sustainable living. Beyond practice, the Centre’s policy insights drive waste prevention and climate action, shaping Ireland’s circular strategies. With its transformative impact, the Rediscovery Centre stands as a beacon of circular principles, illuminating a greener, low-carbon path for Dublin and beyond.

The Regenerative Economy: Perspectives from Government, Academia, and Business

Explore the regenerative economy through the lenses of government, academia, and business experts, as revealed in interviews by BETA Technological Centre in Spain. From economic resilience to environmental stewardship, these perspectives converge on collaboration, policy innovation, and holistic approaches. Albert Palou highlights the role of higher education institutes (HEIs), Maria Calderó Pascual advocates strategic policy shifts, and Carlo Sessa delves into regenerative culture. Amidst these diverse viewpoints, a unified vision emerges, guiding HEIs in Europe toward a just transition through a comprehensive training program.

Food for Thought: From a Mechanistic to a Regenerative Worldview

Are we preparted to alter our mindsets and adopt a more holistic and sustainable economic model that values Planet, People and Profit? In the face of climate change and ecosystem degradation, the concept of a regenerative economy emerges as a solution, urging a shift from transactional gains to sustainable responsibility. Academics are urged to move beyond research, actively engaging stakeholders to drive change; collaborative efforts can foster a future focused on giving back and revitalizing the economy. Will you embrace the challenge and contribute our regenerative future?