Malopolska Congress “Climate – CE – Air”
On October 15–16, 2025, in Krakow, the Malopolska Congress “Climate – CE – Air” will take place. The meeting of local government representatives will provide an opportunity to see firsthand how climate, clean air, and the circular economy (CE) are interconnected – and how to translate these ideas into real, local actions.
Climate protection, improving air quality, and wise resource management are today not only civilizational challenges but also concrete tasks that we must undertake here and now – together, locally, and effectively. That is why we are organizing the Congress, which combines knowledge with practice, experience with engagement, and people from diverse backgrounds – local governments, academia, business, and civil society organizations.
I believe that bringing together different sectors – science, administration, business, and civil society – will serve as a catalyst for concrete actions and inspiration for jointly setting the direction for Malopolska Region as an area open to modern, responsible, and innovative environmental solutions. Collaborative efforts and open debate are essential for the effective implementation of pro-environment solutions and for building a Malopolska that is friendly both to the environment and to its residents, says Ryszard Pagacz, Vice-Marshal of the Malopolska Region.
What will we be discussing?
The event program includes thematic modules with a practical focus – all running in parallel to allow participants to choose the content most relevant to them:
- Circular Economy (CE): from CE in Europe to local implementations – best practices, educational activities, and resource management.
- Energy transition and climate neutrality: the role of local governments in the energy transition, municipal self-sufficiency, hydrogen energy, energy communities (clusters, cooperatives, virtual power plants), artificial intelligence and climate challenges.
- Air and environmental quality: greenery as a tool to combat smog, air-related issues in spa towns, thermal modernization of historic buildings, and persuasive approaches to renewable energy sources (RES).
Beyond the conference hall – study trip and youth debate
On the second day, an educational trip (maximum 50 participants) will take place, offering a firsthand look at the practical application of CE solutions in Krakow.
Youth and students are invited to participate in the Oxford Debate “Youth for Climate”, a joint initiative of the Marshal Office of the Malopolska Region (MO) and AGH University of Science and Technology – a preview of the Congress’s energetic finale.
Why attend the Congress?
Participants of the Malopolska Congress “Climate – CE – Air” will receive:
- concrete, proven tools to facilitate the implementation of ecological initiatives locally – within a municipality, organization, or company,
- access to knowledge from experts and practitioners – with inspirations and examples of actions relevant to everyday local realities,
- opportunities to establish collaborations and exchange experiences in an atmosphere of openness and partnership.
The event is organized by the Marshal Office of the Malopolska Region (MO) as part of the LIFE IP EKOMAŁOPOLSKA, LIFE “Malopolska in a Healthy Atmosphere”, and National Recovery Plan projects.
The event’s honorary patrons are: JM Rektor Akademii Górniczo-Hutniczej w Krakowie, prof. dr hab. inż. Jerzy Lis; JM Rektor Politechniki Krakowskiej, prof. dr hab. Andrzej Szarata; JM Rektor Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego, prof. dr hab. Piotr Jedynak.
