Riga and Bologna Explore Circular Economy Innovation in New Taipei City

A few weeks ago, representatives from the cities of Riga and Bologna took part in a study visit to New Taipei City under the IURC programme, exploring innovative approaches to circular economy, digital governance, and sustainable urban development.

The first day of the visit provided valuable insights into New Taipei City’s resource management strategies. Delegates visited the Resource Recycling Centre and the Digital Smart Monitoring Centre, where they discovered how technology, data-driven decision-making, and effective governance are helping the city build a more sustainable and resilient future.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the visit to the Toy Bank and its logistics centre for recycled toys. This inspiring initiative showcased a unique repair and reuse hub that delivers both environmental and social benefits. By extending the life of toys through repair, redistribution, and reuse, the project reduces waste while creating positive impacts for children, older people, and communities in both urban and rural areas. The initiative demonstrates how circular economy principles can be successfully combined with social inclusion, offering an excellent model that could inspire similar projects across Europe and beyond.

The second day began with a collaborative workshop bringing together representatives from New Taipei City and several European cities to exchange good practices, experiences, and case studies. The discussions highlighted the value of international cooperation in accelerating the transition towards more circular and sustainable cities.

Delegates also explored innovative circular economy projects, including initiatives that transform coffee waste into clothing, sportswear, and high-quality textile fibres. These examples illustrated how research, innovation, and sustainability can work together to create new business opportunities while reducing environmental impacts.

The programme also included a visit to a local handcrafted ceramics workshop, where participants gained first-hand insight into the role of traditional craftsmanship within the circular economy. The workshop demonstrated that sustainability is not only driven by technological innovation but also by preserving local heritage, supporting artisanal skills, and strengthening local economies.

The visit concluded at the New Taipei Museum of Contemporary Art, an outstanding example of architecture that successfully combines aesthetic excellence with sustainability principles. Beyond its impressive design, the museum highlighted the growing connection between culture and sustainability—an increasingly important priority reflected in European initiatives such as the New European Bauhaus (NEB). This shared vision opens new opportunities for collaboration between European and Asian cities in building greener, more inclusive urban environments.

The study visit reinforced the importance of international knowledge exchange and demonstrated how cities can learn from one another to accelerate the transition towards a more circular, innovative, and sustainable future.