On 23 February, an introductory webinar entitled “Regional Technology Foresight for Circular Economy” was delivered by UNIDO under the EU4Green Recovery East programme. The webinar brought together 15 participants from Armenia and Moldova. The session introduced key concepts and practical approaches to technology foresight, with a focus on how these tools can support evidence-based decision-making and innovation planning in the circular economy.
What is technology foresight?
Technology Foresight (TF) is a process that examines long-term developments in science, technology and innovation to support better-informed Ppolicy and business decisions. It helps identify emerging and disruptive technologies, assess their potential impacts, and clarify what capabilities are needed to harness them effectively.
Since the mid-1990s, technology foresight has been widely used to guide science, technology and innovation priorities, particularly in countries undergoing major economic transitions. Today, it is increasingly relevant as governments face rapid technological change in areas such as energy systems, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and advanced materials.
How does it work?
Technology foresight combines a range of participatory and analytical methods, such as trend and horizon scanning, scenario analysis, surveys, workshops, etc. It is a collective intelligence process, bringing together policymakers, researchers and industry representatives.
The Technology Foresight process undertaken by UNIDO under the EU4Green Recovery East programme is designed to support:
- National institutions (Ministries of Economy, Environment, Innovation agencies);
- Business support organizations and CE Hubs established under the programme;
- Industry associations and private sector stakeholders engaged in priority value chains;
- Academic and research entities contributing to innovation ecosystems.
Why is it important for the circular economy?
For countries seeking to develop circular economy ecosystems, technology foresight plays a transformative role. By anticipating future technological developments and innovations, it can:
- Support the design of forward-looking circular economy policies
- Identify green and circular business opportunities
- Embed circularity at the product design stage, rather than relying only on end-of-pipe solutions
- Promote systemic change beyond waste management and recycling
Technology foresight enables policymakers and businesses to move from reaction to anticipation, ensuring that technological change supports long-term environmental and economic resilience.
