Hello everyone!
My name is Irene, and I am volunteering as an IVY Project Partner for the Interreg project CEMTex, in Santiago de Compostela. CEMTex stands for “Closing the loop on Circular Medical Textiles for the transition to a Circular Economy” and sets the strategic framework of all project activities. CEMTex brings together partners from 8 countries: the Netherlands, Denmark, Italy, Romania, Czech Republic, Ukraine, and Spain.
A goal with real-world impact
The main goal of the project is to address circularity within the healthcare system. Currently, the linear model of single-use medical textiles generates large amounts of waste destined for landfill or incineration. At the same time, it increases Europe’s dependency on foreign markets, making the sector more vulnerable in a context of rising political and economic tensions.
By focusing on areas such as public procurement, logistics, and regulatory compliance, the project aims at creating long-term value rather than short-term results. This approach ensures that the actions and best practices developed through the project lead to sustainable and measurable impact. At its core, CEMTex seeks to support the development of stronger policy instruments that promote the use and reuse of circular medical textile, while boosting regional value chains and the circular economy as a whole.
My role within the CEMTex Project
As regards my role within the programme, I support the local team in coordinating project activities and ensuring compliance with the project objectives. In addition, I assist in the collection of research material and in the drafting of periodical policy and financial reports. I also help organise online events aimed at sharing expertise among regional and international stakeholders.
Who benefits from the project
The CEMTex Project benefits a wide range of stakeholders, including end users, local communities, professionals, and partner organisations, at both national and international levels. By addressing economic and environmental challenges in the sector, the project creates opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation.
Despite its recent launch, the project has already facilitated the exchange of successful green procurement practices during an international meeting among project partners. These practices were received with great interest, and some partners are considering their adoption. Ultimately, society as a whole will benefit from improved practices, stronger networks, and more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions in the health sector.
Cooperation as a key success factor
At the heart of the project’s success lies cooperation among project partners. Each partner brings unique expertise and perspectives, while regular communication ensures alignment and peer review sessions foster mutual learning and collaboration.
It is inspiring to witness how the exchange of ideas and experiences can drive faster innovation and improvements across regions. In a world where divisions seem to be growing, I am especially honoured to contribute to European cooperation through the Interreg Program.
– Irene, IVY Project Partner at the AXENCIA GALEGA DE COÑECEMENTO EN SAÚDE (GALICIAN HEALTH KNOWLEDGE AGENCY) – ACIS, for the Interreg Europe project CEMTex – Closing the loop on Circular Medical Textiles for the transition to a Circular Economy
