Purpose

About the project
EcoZani aims to support a fair workforce transition in Kozani during the lignite transition period by leveraging the local cultural identity, particularly through Kozani’s Carnival. The project emphasizes the Talent-Technology-Tolerance framework to foster ecosystems that harness talent, drive innovation, and promote inclusivity. Initiatives like the 3Z Carnival focused on being zero-waste, zero-emission, and zero-exclusion are designed to boost local entrepreneurship and transition Kozani into a sustainable, climate-neutral city. EcoZani employs a participatory approach to engage communities, create new job opportunities, and preserve cultural heritage.

The “Talent” ecosystem supports youth entrepreneurship through competitions and start-up incubation.

The “Technology” ecosystem focuses on the creation and application of 3Z products through upcycling and circular economy hubs, including the establishment of the UpCycle Creative Reuse Center and MICTH, a municipal, inclusive circular economy hub to be based in the former OSE (Hellenic Railways Organization) in Kozani.

The “Tolerance” ecosystem promotes inclusivity through training programs and city-wide public consultations for sustainable urban interventions.