United Circles – Training for Hubs for Circularity strengthens systems thinking and collaboration

The in-person training took place from 20–22 May 2026 in Pécs. The programme provided participants with practical tools to better understand and manage circular systems, in particular in the areas of systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, strategic communication, and system dynamics.

The first day focused on systems thinking. Participants developed core principles and applied them in hands-on exercises, including causal loop diagrams (CLDs) using the Vensim tool. The day concluded with the application of systems thinking to waste mapping activities, as well as discussions on harmonised data approaches across the H4Cs.

The second day focused on systems thinking and stakeholder-oriented decision-making. Through case studies and group work, participants analysed value chains, identified bottlenecks, and discussed technical, regulatory, and organisational challenges. The afternoon was dedicated to stakeholder mapping and strategic communication, including the development of stakeholder journeys.

The third day integrated systems thinking and communication. Participants worked on aligning communication strategies with hub objectives and explored how qualitative insights can be translated into system dynamics models. The training concluded by linking systems thinking and communication through a business canvas approach.

The training programme was developed by STENUM. It was based on a comprehensive assessment that identified training needs in order to close the gap in the skills required for the efficient implementation of Circular Economy and Urban-Industrial Symbiosis in Hubs for Circularity.