In the framework of the Eco-accelerator project: Innovation in Circular Business Models for E-Commerce Packaging, developed as part of the Component 1 Action of the AL-INVEST Verde Programme, which supports the green transition of Latin American SMEs, the Santiago Chamber of Commerce (CCS), together with its European partner, the Valencia Chamber of Commerce, organised a business mission to Valencia last June, with the aim of promoting innovation in circular business models.

The main objective of the initiative was to strengthen the capacities of small and medium-sized Chilean companies that are developing innovative circularity solutions in packaging, with a special focus on e-commerce applications. To this end, a panel of national and international expert jurors selected three Chilean companies with high potential for innovation, circularity and scaling, which participated in a full agenda of technical visits, meetings and presentations with key players in the circular economy ecosystem in packaging in the Valencian Community.

During the week, the group had the opportunity to learn about the work of leading technology centres such as AIMPLAS, AINIA and ITENE, as well as the Biopolymers Group of the FoodUPV Institute. Visits were also made to leading companies in materials and process innovation, such as PrimeBioPolymers and the macro industrial plant of Hinojosa Packaging Group. These activities were complemented with specialised presentations on European regulations, certifications, life cycle analysis (LCA), market trends and best practices in the management of packaging and sustainable logistics.

The delegation was composed of Verónica Torres, Sustainability Manager at CCS; Dana Wagner, Sustainability Analyst at CCS; Romina Pacheco, R&D Director at Hera Materials; Loreto Contreras, Sustainability Product Responsible at Not Plastic - Top Color; and Lorena Zanoni, Founder and CEO of FungalTech.

With actions like this, the AL-INVEST Verde Programme, through its Component 1, reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of sustainable production and consumption models in Latin America, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, technologies and good practices between Europe and the region to strengthen the environmental competitiveness of MSMEs.

About AL-INVEST Verde

AL-INVEST Verde is a European Union programme whose main objective is to promote sustainable growth and job creation in Latin America by supporting the transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient and more circular economy. Through Component 1, the programme manages funds for the implementation of innovative small business partnership projects to boost sustainable practices in the private sector. Component 1 is led by sequa, a German non-profit organisation operating worldwide with the aim of promoting the private sector. For more information visit: www.alinvest-verde.eu