Discussions on the prospects of integrating new industrial technologies, advancing circular solutions in the construction sector, and optimizing energy efficiency - alongside the progress of the MOBICCON-PRO project - brought together industry representatives, European institutions, and academics from both sides of the Atlantic in Brussels. These experts participated in the conference “Building the Future: EU and US Perspectives on Technological Development, Circular Construction, and Energy”, held in the European capital on Monday.

Organized by the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC) and the Bulgarian construction holding Glavbolgarstroy, the event focused on joint initiatives and the exchange of best practices and expertise between Europe and the U.S. to support circular economy, enhance competitiveness, and foster innovation.

During the forum, Plamena Nenkova, Deputy Executive Director “International Relations and Business Development” at Glavbolgarstroy Holding spoke about the perspectives towards the construction sector in terms of introducing new technologies and use of recycled building materials and products and presented the latest developments in the MOBICCON-PRO project. She emphasized the crucial role of collaboration between businesses and academia in developing technological solutions, optimizing production processes, and fostering market growth by further offering construction products with recycled content.

"The link between circular economy and competitiveness is essential for guaranteeing the sustainable future of the construction industry. Furthermore, energy efficiency and the integration of innovative construction materials will be key drivers of the sector's long-term development" Nenkova stated.

Aligned with this vision, the Bulgarian construction holding is actively investing in the implementation and testing of new technologies for construction waste management. The company is not only supporting the deployment of a mobile pilot plant for recycling of construction and demolition waste but is also analyzing the potential of newly developed recycled materials by assessing their market applicability. "The project has already delivered tangible results following the official launch of the recycling facility in Sofia at the end of last year," Nenkova added.

Moreover, the mobility of the facility enables significant reduction in carbon emissions, as it can be compacted directly at large construction sites or at municipalities possessing no recycling facilities.

"We believe that through this project, businesses and local authorities can establish effective partnerships to promote circular economy in the construction sector and accelerate the transition toward more efficient resource utilization," Nenkova concluded.

Pablo Gutierrez from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and SMEs highlighted the economic significance of the construction sector for Europe and its pivotal role in the transition to a greener, more sustainable economy.

To ensure the sector’s steady development, the European Commission has developed the Transition Pathway for Construction, created in collaboration with industry stakeholders, EU member states, and other key partners. The initiative aims to facilitate an effective transition by integrating green and digital technologies, reducing waste, optimizing resource efficiency, and enhancing industry competitiveness.

Photo: (From left to right) Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and Vice-Chair of the EU-US Delegation; Simeon Tsomokos, President of the Delphi Economic Forum and Member of the International Advisory Board of Glavbolgarstroy Holding; Emil Angelov, CEO of Glavbolgarstroy Holding; Domenico Campogrande, Director General of the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC).

The event was officially opened by Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and Vice-Chair of the EU-US Delegation; Emil Angelov, CEO of Glavbolgarstroy Holding; Domenico Campogrande, Director General of the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC); and Simeon Tsomokos, President of the Delphi Economic Forum and a member of the International Advisory Board of Glavbolgarstroy Holding.

"Global shifts in politics and technology present Europe with significant strategic challenges that require a balanced and proactive approach," stated Eva Maydell in her opening remarks. She emphasized that in today’s rapidly evolving environment, marked by challenges and transformation, innovation and technology are not merely drivers of economic growth but also the key to a more competitive and efficient future.

Emil Angelov highlighted the event’s role as a platform for knowledge sharing, best practices, and forward-looking discussions: "Today's conference provides an opportunity not only to address challenges and differences but also to leverage expert insights to forge partnerships and pathways that bring us together. Together, we can build a shared future that benefits both society and the environment."

The event gathered representatives from the European Union and the United States to discuss key business development strategies, the promotion of innovation, and technological progress on both sides of the Atlantic. Discussions centered on competitiveness and energy transformation, with a strong focus on fostering collaboration and the exchange of best practices between Europe and the U.S.

Photo: (from left to right) Ivan Mihaylov, Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria; Donna Shalala, former member of the U.S. House of Representatives; Congressman Larry Bucshon, member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Commerce; Tsvetelina Penkova, Member of the European Parliament and Vice-Chair of the Committee on Industry, Research, and Energy; Meglena Mihova, Managing Partner at EPPA, Brussels; Witold Stżelecki, Managing Director of Business & Science Poland.

The participants emphasized the importance of dialogue at both the European and global levels, recognizing its key role in fostering a sustainable economic environment and driving investment. The topics discussed are crucial for the future development of various industries, with the overarching goal of creating effective solutions to ensure a stable and competitive business climate on both sides of the Atlantic.

Larry Bucshon, a long-term Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Commerce, underscored the significance of cooperation among nations that share common values as a driving force for economic growth and long-term development.

"Open communication and fair competition are essential for building stronger and more resilient markets. They encourage innovation, stimulate investment, and create the conditions for economic stability," he stated. According to him, the energy sector is undergoing a dynamic transformation, with ongoing debates about the efficient use of natural gas and the development of environmentally friendly alternatives remaining a key priority. "Our objective should be finding a balanced model that meets economic demands while upholding environmental responsibility," Bucshon commented.

He further highlighted that investments in clean technologies and energy innovation are already yielding tangible results. "Since 2005, the United States has reduced carbon emissions more than any other country in the world. This proves that business and industry can be part of the solution while maintaining their competitiveness," the Congressman stated.

According to him, the commitment to sustainable energy solutions not only enhances economic performance but also creates new opportunities for global development.

Tsvetelina Penkova, Member of the European Parliament and Vice-Chair of the Committee on Industry, Research, and Energy, highlighted three key priorities shaping the future of the energy sector: diversification of energy sources, balance in the energy mix, and the development of energy connectivity, which is crucial for improving infrastructure and market integration. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of the European economy. Expanding and increasing the competitiveness of these businesses requires better access to private financing—an area where significant differences exist between Europe and the United States.

To strengthen cooperation and foster the innovation potential of businesses, it is essential first to acknowledge existing disparities and find practical solutions that facilitate access to investments and new technologies.

Donna Shalala, former Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, underscored the role of business in driving change: "Business is a key engine of transformation, and access to financing for new companies with strong ideas is essential, whether they are in Europe or the U.S." She noted that differences in regulatory and financial frameworks should not be seen as obstacles but as opportunities for adaptation and the exchange of best practices. A prime example is the Atlantic Olympic Village, where innovative technologies are being implemented and have the potential for large-scale deployment.

Economic development is driven by talent, access to technology and innovation, management strategies, and most importantly—business itself. Over the past decades, these factors have solidified the United States' position as a leader in the global economy, while other major economies have struggled to maintain the same pace.

Ivan Mihaylov, CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria, emphasize: "For Europe to remain competitive, we must recognize that business should take the lead ahead of regulations and policies."

According to him, Europe faces significant challenges, but this also presents an opportunity for transformation and sustainable economic growth. Creating an environment where businesses play a leading role in innovation and technological advancement will be the key to long-term competitiveness and economic stability.