25 > Western Macedonia, Greece HUBS The Western Macedonia Hub is a multistakeholder initiative coordinated by CERTH and APANEMO to integrate people with disabilities into the region’s emerging circular bioeconomy. Main Challenges The region faces the decline of coal-based industries, environmental degradation, and high unemployment. People with disabilities encounter additional barriers such as inaccessible infrastructure, limited training pathways, and employer bias. These challenges make inclusive, sustainable alternatives essential for a just transition. Marginalised groups involved Business model developed The Hub supports a social cooperative enterprise based on inclusive woodworking workshops. With technical input from the University of Thessaly, used pallets are transformed into circular products such as keychains and phone holders. Municipalities act as both market facilitators and end-users, purchasing products for local institutions. This model combines circularity, economic activity, and social inclusion, creating accessible jobs while strengthening community cohesion. What’s Next? The Hub envisions itself as an inclusive innovation space where communities, researchers, and entrepreneurs cocreate regenerative circular solutions. • People with physical, sensory, intellectual, or cognitive disabilities The Hub represents a new beginning for Western Macedonia. By focusing on the capabilities of people with disabilities, we set an example for an inclusive, sustainable future. website
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