When thinking about the roles of universities, we usually think about the creation, transfer and delivery of knowledge to students, the scientific community, partners, and general society. But if we take a broader view, universities also contribute fresh, creative perspectives, and ideas that help shape a better society, improve quality of life, and support the development of our world.
This is what re:gen-u is all about: showing how traditional, extractive economies and businesses can adopt new approaches and models that create a wider prosperity for our planet, its resources, people, and future generations. However, changing something that is traditionally and globally embedded in society is not easy; it takes time, it needs patience, persistence, clear motives, and a clear vision. Here, universities can play a vital role: researching, substantiating, and advocating for changes that can benefit society.
Our project introduces new teaching methods, deepens understanding of traditional versus regenerative business and economic approaches, stimulates students’ innovative and creative thinking, and fosters synergy among partners from business, municipalities, governments, NGOs, and beyond – all in pursuit of a more sustainable world.
Partnerships play an important role for universities: building networks and communities that can drive improvements across many areas of life. Partners who support knowledge transfer and its application are essential, and we must inspire them with ideas, insights, and results that enable meaningful progress toward regenerative development. In the field of sustainability – and especially regenerative economy – challenges are everywhere, which is why projects like re:gen-u are so important. With the EU’s support, we can amplify knowledge, strengthen innovation, and advance effective pathways to sustainability — goals that lie at the heart of both the EU’s mission and that of universities.
We enjoyed being the partners in such a creative and stimulating project. And as an institution, we are inclined to enhance our knowledge in this area, contributing to new regenerative business models and changes in the economy. We are proud of our students who developed impressive projects in regenerative thinking and innovation, and proud to share their innovations with the whole consortium at the re:gen-u Innovation Challenge Final Pitching Event.
Genuine and collaborative knowledge sharing is key. If we can continue on this path, the regenerative economy will soon move from vision to common practice.
Author: Maja Zalaznik, SEB UL