Circular Economy is a one-day conference bringing together thought leaders, innovators and decision-makers to explore how local areas can drive the UK’s green transition amidst political uncertainty, economic pressure, and environmental
urgency.
We’re delighted to share the news that Earthshine Group will be participating in “The Circular Economy UK 2026” conference – hosted by The Sustainability Community in partnership with West Midlands Combined Authority – a major event that brings together leaders, innovators, educators, investors, and policymakers at a pivotal national summit that charts a new future, where circularity is at the heart of the new industrial revolution.
Taking place on 5th February in the heart of Birmingham, the home of manufacturing, speakers and delegates will discuss the critical role of the manufacturing sector in driving forward circular economy principles in the 21st century. Our CEO Mike Townsend will be speaking at the session on “Unlocking Green Skills at Scale: What will It Take?”
Mike shares his passion for the event and what it means for the region, “It means a lot to me, personally, to share this platform back in my home town. I grew up just down the road from where they used to manufacture thousands of new cars each year, watching the post-industrial decline – so it’s long been an ambition of mine to get involved and see how Birmingham and the UK can harness the circular economy as a catalyst for economic, social and environmental regeneration – creating new jobs, livelihoods and greater shared prosperity, as well as greatly improved environmental impacts. It’s a massive opportunity for people, enterprise and regeneration.”
Of course, the transition to a circular economy demands a rapid and nationwide upskilling of the workforce. There are implications at all levels – for business leaders, management and the labour force. It’s also about creating new opportunities for the next generation, developing new skills and apprenticeships. This level of activity requires some serious strategic planning, the like of which we haven’t seen in many decades:
🎯 How do we maximise the circular economic opportunity?
🙋♀️ What new types of enterprise, infrastructure, jobs and skills will be needed?
👩🎓 How do we close the gap between emerging skills demand and supply?
💡 What are the key enablers and barriers for developing circular skills at scale?
💪 What best practice examples can we learn from in UK and internationally?
Please come and join us at Circular Economy UK 2026 – we’ll delighted to meet and discuss ideas + collaborations in support of the circular industrial revolution!
