Advance Circular

ALTRU PRENEUR PRP

Project information

PROJECT TITLE: ADVANCE CIRCULAR – Linking Tourism Industry with VET to embrace circularity

ACRONYM: ADVANCE CIRCULAR

”ADVANCE CIRCULAR – Linking Tourism Industry with VET to embrace circularity” is a transnational project coordinated by the National Institute of Research and Development in Tourism (Romania).The aim of the project is to foster innovative circular approaches and tools in the tourism sector and its related areas through transnational cooperation and knowledge transfer, by linking vocational education and training to this sector.

Objectives:

To increase understanding of the way the Circular Economy influences the Tourism industry and VET in terms of readiness and skills through 2 analysis bringing together VET institutions and companies in the field in 4 countries in at least 8 months of project.
To enhance organizations and practitioners capabilities through 3 innovative and digital tools supporting Tourism Industry and VET to act in CE, in 4 countries/EU level throughout project.
To develop at least 5 applicative learning contexts (transnational & national) for tourism and VET experts based on Design Thinking, in 4 countries at European level.
To raise awareness and capacity to exploit project results in 5 partner organizations/their external context in 4 countries/EU level on 24 months.

PROJECT RESULTS:

A) Analysis of Mapping the Scene and Creating Bridges:

Are we ready for Circularity?
Skills for the green and circular transition

B) Innovative tools supporting Tourism Industry and VET to act in Circular Economy:

The CE: Moving from theory to practice
Skills taxonomy for CE
Digital set of cards based on what are the 5 R's of CE (Rethink, Redesign, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)

C) Knowledge contexts for Tourism and VET experts based on Design Thinking:

Training Package with 5 thematic modules and a dedicated section on “Digital Self-learning Tools” to encourage independent learning and flexibility.
Transnational Training Programme titled “Tourism & VET Advancing Circular – Exploring the Possibilities”, complemented by 4 National Training Sessions. These sessions bring together a balanced mix of participants, including experts from VET institutions, tourism companies, and related organizations.

Consortium consists of:

National Institute of Research and Development in Tourism (INCDT) from Romania as lead partner.
Centro Superior de Formación Europa Sur (CESUR) from Spain.
Association of Consultants and Experts on Social Economy Romania (ACE-ES Romania)
Bulgarian Association for Alternative Tourism (BAAT) from Bulgaria.
E-ZAVOD, zavod za projektno svetovanje, raziskovanje in razvoj celovitih rešitev (E-ZAVOD) from Slovenia.

Project period - 24 months (01.10.2023-30.09.2025).

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Analysis

Invitation

Invitation to participate in the circular economy survey in tourism

As part of the project »ADVANCE CIRCULAR - Connecting the Tourism Industry with Vocational Education and Training for Promoting Circularity«, co-financed by the Erasmus+ program, we kindly invite you to participate in two key surveys. Your participation will play a crucial role in shaping future strategies and practices that will support the transition of the tourism sector and vocational education and training towards a circular economy.

1. First Survey: Readiness of the tourism sector for a circular economy

Please complete the questionnaire at the following link: First Survey

2. Second Survey: Skills for the green and circular transition in the tourism industry

Please complete the questionnaire at the following link: Second Survey

Completing both questionnaires will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

We thank you for your time and participation. Your contribution is vital for the successful implementation of this project and for promoting sustainable development in the tourism industry and vocational education and training.

For additional information or questions, please contact Ksenija Napast at email: ksenija(at)ezavod.si

Attachment:

Poster invitation_ (482 Kb)

Analysis 1

National Report on »Are We Ready for Circularity in Slovenia?«

The national report, "Are We Ready for Circularity?", prepared by eZavod, provides a comprehensive analysis of Slovenia's progress and readiness towards adopting Circular Economy (CE) principles, with a focus on the tourism sector and vocational education and training (VET). Here are the key findings and recommendations from the report:

Key Findings:

National Strategies Supporting Circular Economy:
- Slovenia Development Strategy 2030: Aims for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and promotes renewable energy sources.
- City of Maribor's CE Strategy: Focuses on waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable mobility.
- Slovenian Tourism Strategy 2022-2028: Emphasizes sustainable tourism practices.
- Recovery and Resilience Plan (NOO—RRP): Allocates €1.7 billion for the green transition, circular economy, and green skills training.
Incorporation of CE Practices in Tourism:
- Many tourism organizations prioritize local sourcing and have implemented solid waste management practices.
- Common barriers include financial constraints, technical challenges, and lack of human resources and training.
Awareness and Readiness:
- High awareness of sustainability and CE among tourism organizations, with a strong interest in adopting CE practices.
- VET institutions are preparing students with necessary skills but face challenges such as insufficient resources and industry collaboration.
Educational and Training Focus:
- VET institutions are focusing on digital marketing, climate change adaptation, and CE principles.
- Main obstacles include financial limitations, outdated curricula, and lack of trained educators.

Recommendations:

Enhancing Awareness and Knowledge:
- Increase information dissemination and training on CE principles for both tourism professionals and VET educators.
Financial Support and Resources:
- Provide more financial resources to support CE initiatives and training programs in both sectors.
Industry Collaboration:
- Foster stronger partnerships between VET institutions and businesses to promote practical applications of CE principles.
Educational Reforms:
- Integrate CE principles into educational curricula and provide specialized training for educators.
Support for VET Institutions:
- Offer policy and regulatory advocacy, online platforms for collaboration, specialized training programs, and financial assistance for curriculum development.
Support for Tourism Organizations:
- Facilitate networking, exchange of best practices, participation in training programs, and provide financial support for implementing CE practices.

SWOT Analysis:

Strengths: High awareness of CE importance, effective digital marketing education, and preparedness to implement CE principles in future workplaces.
Weaknesses: Lack of knowledge and financial resources, insufficient trained staff, and limited access to sustainable products.
Opportunities: National and European funds, willingness to learn and exchange best practices, and participation in CE projects.
Threats: Customer acceptance of CE practices, additional implementation costs, and complexity of administrative procedures.

By addressing these areas, Slovenia can significantly advance its commitment to a circular and sustainable future, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

For more detailed insights, the full report is available at:

Annex V_National report of Analysis 1_A2.2._SIovenia_final 2024 (1.4 Mb)

Analysis 2

National Report on »Skills for the Green and Circular Transition in Slovenia«:

The national report, developed by eZavod Ptuj, provides an in-depth analysis of Slovenia's readiness for a green and circular transition, focusing on strategies, plans, and the importance of green skills in both the tourism sector and vocational education and training (VET). Here are the key insights and recommendations from the report:

Key Findings:

Strategic Commitments:

Slovenia's Development Strategy 2030: Emphasizes sustainable development with goals for green skills improvement and transitioning to a circular economy.
Slovenian Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2022-2028: Focuses on sustainable tourism practices, including green skills training for tourism workers.
Recovery and Resilience Plan (NOO - RRP): Allocates €1.7 billion to promote the green transition, circular economy, and green skills training.

Importance of Green Skills:

Both VET institutions and tourism organizations recognize the necessity of green and circular transitions in their operations and the broader industry.
Key green skills identified include energy and water efficiency, waste management, promoting sustainable transport, and using local products and resources.

Challenges and Barriers:

For VET Institutions: Financial constraints, inadequate material base, outdated pedagogical methods, and lack of familiarity with circular economy concepts.
For Tourism Organizations: Financial and technical challenges, lack of trained staff, and limited access to sustainable products.

Support Needed:

VET Institutions: Require exchange of good practices, networking with other organizations, specialized training programs, and adequate infrastructure.
Tourism Sector: Needs training programs, exchange of good practices, financial support, and networking opportunities.

Recommendations:

Enhance Awareness and Education:

Increase information dissemination and training on circular economy principles for both tourism professionals and VET educators.

Financial and Technical Support:

Provide more financial resources to support circular economy initiatives and training programs in both sectors.
Develop infrastructure and tools necessary for effective green skills education and training.

Promote Industry Collaboration:

Foster stronger partnerships between VET institutions and businesses to promote practical applications of circular economy principles.

Policy and Regulatory Advocacy:

Advocate for policies that support the integration of circular economy concepts into educational curricula and business practices.

Specialized Training Programs:

Develop and provide specialized training programs for educators and staff on sustainable practices and circular economy.

General Conclusions:

The importance of green skills is embedded in almost every strategy in Slovenia, indicating a strong commitment to the circular transition.
Both VET institutions and tourism organizations show high awareness and recognition of the necessity for green and circular transitions in their operations.
Effective transition requires adequate resources, updated methods, industry collaboration, and ongoing support for developing and implementing green skills.

By addressing these areas, Slovenia can significantly advance its commitment to a sustainable and circular future, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

For more detailed insights, the full report is available at:

National report_Analysis 2_Slovenia_final 5.6.2024 (703 Kb)

Tools

As part of the project, three core tools were developed to support the transition to a circular economy in the tourism sector. Documents are available for download or viewing below:

The Circular Economy

The Circular Economy: Moving from Theory to Practice

Guidelines for companies and vocational education institutions

This document provides practical measures and recommendations for tourism companies and VET providers to transition towards circular practices. It also includes a model Action Plan tailored for both types of organisations to implement circularity in their operations and training activities.

Attachment: Advance Circular The CE MOving from theory to practice_TOOL 1_final (6.2 Mb)

Skill Taxonomy

Skill Taxonomy

A structured overview of 26 Circular Economy competencies in tourism

The Skill Taxonomy provides a structured framework of skills relevant to the tourism sector and related fields from a Circular Economy perspective. It supports companies and VET institutions in designing training programs that respond to climate challenges and sustainability goals.

The competencies are grouped into five categories, based on the core elements of the Circular Economy (as defined by Circle Economy):

Prioritise regenerative resources – Use renewable, reusable, and non-toxic resources efficiently for materials and energy.
Stretch the lifetime – Maintain, repair, and upgrade products to extend their use, and implement take-back strategies where possible.
Use waste as a resource – Recover and reuse waste streams as valuable secondary resources.
Design circular – Consider circularity in the design phase by selecting suitable materials and planning for long-lasting, reusable products.
Incorporate digital technology – Track and optimise resource use and strengthen connections between actors through digital platforms and tools.

Attachment: Advance Circular_Skill taxonomy_TOOL 2_final (45.7 Mb)

Knowledge base

A Training Pack with 5 modules

A training package in 5 modules, supplemented by a special chapter on digital tools and methods for self-learning.

The trainign pack consists of 5 modules:

Starting Circularity,
Principles of Circularity,
Products & Services,
Challenges & Solutions,
Design Thinking Methods for Circularity.

A special chapter is also devoted to digital tools and methods for self-learning. The training and learning program empowers experts to transition to a circular economy with tailored resources and training programs for developing competencies in the field of circular tourism.

Attachment: https://advancecircular.incdt.ro/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Advance-Circular-A4.2-Training-Pack.pdf

News

“ADVANCE CIRCULAR” – Promoting Sustainable Tourism through Vocational Education and Training

PRESS RELEASE 27.08.2025

We are pleased to announce significant progress in the implementation of the transnational project “ADVANCE CIRCULAR – Linking Tourism Industry with VET to Embrace Circularity”, an Erasmus+ initiative designed to foster the integration of circular economy principles into the tourism sector and its related industries. The project emphasizes transnational cooperation and knowledge transfer by building strong links between the tourism industry and vocational education and training (VET).

Through the development of innovative tools, educational resources, and good practices, ADVANCE CIRCULAR seeks to bridge the gap between tourism stakeholders and training institutions, equipping a new generation of professionals with the skills needed to meet today’s sustainability challenges.
Led by INCDT (Romania), the consortium includes partners from Slovenia, Bulgaria, and Spain. Together, they aim to accelerate circularity in tourism through education, training, and innovation.
Within this project, the partners have successfully developed several key tools designed to support the transition of the tourism sector and VET institutions towards circular economy practices.

Mapping the Scene & Creating Bridges – Building the Foundation for Circular Tourism
As part of Work Package 2 – Mapping the Scene & Creating Bridges, the ADVANCE CIRCULAR partners have carried out two important analyses designed to prepare the tourism sector and VET institutions for the transition to a circular economy:

“Are We Ready for Circularity?” – an analysis that identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges tourism stakeholders face in adopting circular practices.
“Skills for the Green and Circular Transition” – a study exploring the essential skills, competences, and attitudes needed to successfully move from a linear to a circular model, based on direct insights from key actors in the sector.

These studies create bridges between education providers and companies, strengthening dialogue and aligning training with real labor market needs. They also underline tourism’s potential as a driver of circular value creation, given its strong links with agriculture, food, transport, construction, and other sectors.

Innovative Tools for VET Institutions & Tourism Companies
Under Work Package 3 – Tools for VET and Companies, the project partners have designed three innovative instruments to support the transition:

Practical Guidelines – “The Circular Economy: Moving from Theory to Practice”, with separate sections for tourism companies and VET institutions, offering concrete measures, recommendations, and adaptable action plans.
A Skills Taxonomy, a structured framework that connects industry requirements with VET training programs, ensuring that future professionals are equipped with the right competencies for a green transition.
A Digital Card Set based on the 5Rs of Circular Economy (Rethink, Redesign, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), including 40 cards with case studies showcasing best practices in tourism and related industries.

These tools, validated through national seminars and piloting sessions, strengthen organizational capacity, encourage innovation, and promote digital solutions to advance circular practices.

Training & Learning Environments – Empowering Professionals for Circular Transition
Through Work Package 4 – Training & Learning Environments, the consortium has developed tailored training resources and programs to build competencies in circular tourism:

A Training Pack with 5 modules (Starting Circularity, Principles of Circularity, Products & Services, Challenges & Solutions, Design Thinking Methods for Circularity), complemented by a special section on Digital Self-Learning Tools & Methods.
A Transnational Training Program – “Tourism & VET in Tourism Advancing Circular: Exploring the Possibilities”, hosted in Málaga (Spain), focusing on applying Design Thinking as a tool for creating new circular business and training models, brought together tourism professionals and VET representatives from all four partner countries.
4 National Training Sessions, delivered in each partner country, where participants from the transnational program acted as trainers of trainers (ToT), sharing knowledge and methods with other professionals in tourism and VET.

Intangible Results
The project has generated significant intangible outcomes across partner organizations, practitioners, VET institutions, and the tourism industry. These include:

Enhanced organizational capacity and quality of work: Partners have developed a deeper understanding of what circular economy entails in the tourism sector, fostering greater innovation, flexibility, and the ability to adapt measures to local needs.
Bridging education and industry: VET institutions, responsible for preparing the future workforce, have been brought together with tourism companies and related organizations. This interaction strengthens dialogue, enables mutual learning, and aligns training with labor market needs, contributing to effective capacity building for the circular economy.
New ways of thinking and working: Professionals are adopting circular thinking as a foundation for sustainable innovation, supporting the transition to a low-carbon, circular economy.
Skills and professional development: Participants have improved their ability to implement circular economy principles, ensuring that both individuals and organizations can seize the opportunities offered by a more sustainable tourism sector.

With these results, ADVANCE CIRCULAR continues to raise awareness of the potential of the circular economy in tourism, empowering organizations to become leaders in sustainable value creation.

For more information and updates, visit: https://advancecircular.incdt.ro/news/

Project nr: "2023-1-RO01-KA220-VET-000154021"

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of theauthor(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

What we achieved

Embracing the Circular Economy in Tourism: It All Starts with Education

As the tourism industry recovers from recent global challenges, it faces a clear imperative: to grow sustainably. The future of tourism is no longer just about attracting more visitors, but about doing so in ways that protect the environment, regenerate resources, and bring lasting benefits to local communities.

At the heart of this transformation is the circular economy — a model that replaces the old take–make–dispose approach with practices that reduce waste, keep materials in use, and restore ecosystems. In tourism, this can mean anything from phasing out single-use plastics in hotels to promoting low-impact, community-led travel experiences.

However, the shift towards circular tourism requires more than new business models — it demands new skills and mindsets. That is where education plays a crucial role.

The recently concluded ADVANCE CIRCULAR project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme, aimed to equip tourism professionals and educators with the tools and knowledge necessary to implement circularity in practice. Implemented in Slovenia, Romania, Spain and Bulgaria, the project linked vocational education and training (VET) with the day-to-day needs of the tourism industry.

A key outcome was the Skill Taxonomy, which identifies 26 essential competencies for the circular transition — from sustainable procurement and waste prevention to life-cycle thinking and digital skills for measuring and reducing impacts. These competencies are supported by interactive 5R Digital Cards (Rethink, Redesign, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) that make the concepts easy to teach and apply, and by a comprehensive Training Pack with five learning modules and self-learning tools for teachers, students and professionals.

By providing concrete learning materials and clear skill profiles, ADVANCE CIRCULAR supports the aims of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and the European Green Deal, both of which emphasise green skills and sustainable business practices across all sectors, including tourism.

As more countries adopt national circular strategies, ADVANCE CIRCULAR shows how international cooperation, targeted training and practical tools can accelerate change on the ground. It does not just prepare professionals, teachers and students for the future — it helps them shape it.

For more information and to access all project results and learning tools, visit advancecircular.incdt.ro, where all resources are open access and free to all interested individuals and organisations.

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