Expert Committee

Expert Committee admin 03/07/2025

Meet our Expert Committee

Following the path set by PSGE 2022, a new Expert Committee has been formed for PSGE 2025 to develop a new Position Statement focused on promoting the circular economy and environmental sustainability. In 2022, the document brought together around 80 stakeholders and reflected a shared vision. In 2025, the new committee will once again gather diverse perspectives from across sectors, ensuring the Position Statement remains a valuable tool to inform and influence sustainability policies at local, national, and international levels.

COORDINATION

Marta Moreira Marques
MARTA MOREIRA MARQUES
Expert Committee Coordinator Assistant Professor at the National School of Public Health, NOVA University of Lisbon / Associate for the Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London
Jorge Coelho
JORGE COELHO
Expert Committee Scientific Coordinator
Full professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Coimbra and Scientific Leader of Sustainable Plastics Agenda
Bernard Merkx
BERNARD MERKX
Expert Committee Industry Coordinator
CEO/Owner GreenWavePlastics
Nuno Aguiar
NUNO AGUIAR
Technical Director | APIP

MEMBERS

Alicia Martin
ALICIA MARTIN
General Director at Plastics Europe Ibérica Region
Ana Cristina Carrola
ANA CRISTINA CARROLA
Member of the Board of Directors at Portuguese Environment Agency
Ana Oliveira
ANA OLIVEIRA
Director of Quality and Food Safety
ANA PAULA RODRIGUES
Vice-President of ADENE - Agência para a Energia
Ana Pires
ANA PIRES
CEO and Co-Founder of DIMERA
Ana Quintas
ANA QUINTAS
Portugal Country Lead & Senior Sustainability Coach at Sustenuto
Ángela Osma
ÁNGELA OSMA
Technical manager at ANAIP
António Pontes
ANTÓNIO PONTES
Associate Professor at Department of Polymer Engineering of the University of Minho
Bruno Silva
BRUNO PEREIRA DA SILVA
Public Affairs and Sustainability Director at PIEP
Carla Pinto
CARLA PINTO
Director of the Department on Corporate Sustainability (Directorate-General for Economic Activities)
Carla Pinto
CARLA PINTO
Executive Director of APCC - Portuguese Association of Shopping Centers
Carla Velez
CARLA VELEZ
Secretary General at ESGRA
Carlos Bernardo
CARLOS BERNARDO
Emeritus Professor / Minho University
César Coutinho
CÉSAR COUTINHO
Chief Technology Officer at BIKiNNOV
Cristina Costa
CRISTINA COSTA
Environmental Engineer at APIAM - PROBEB
Cristina Monge Frontiñan
CRISTINA MONGE FRONTIÑÁN
Secretary General AVEP
Dâmaso Silva
DÂMASO SILVA
PV and Sustainability Consultant
Daniela Cordova
DANIELA CORDOVA PIZARRO
International Constant on Circular Economy
Elsa Agante
ELSA AGANTE
Team Leader of Energy and Sustainability at DECO PROteste
Fausto Freire
FAUSTO FREIRE
Prof at Univ Coimbra & Coordinator of the Center for Industrial Ecology
Fátima Poças
FÁTIMA POÇAS
Researcher and Professor at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP)
Federica Gallicchio
FEDERICA GALLICCHIO
Managing Director at EuPC – European Plastics Converters
Fernando Leite
FERNANDO LEITE
CEO at LIPOR
Fernando Ventura
FERNANDO VENTURA
Environment Global Director at Jerónimo Martins, SGPS
Filipa Bessa
FILIPA BESSA
Professor at University of Coimbra and Researcher at CFE
Filipa Pantaleão
FILIPA PANTALEÃO
Secretary General at BCSD Portugal
FRANCIS HUYSMAN
Managing Director at Valipac and Fost Plus
GIL NADAIS
Secretary-General of ABIMOTA
Gonçalo Lobo Xavier
GONÇALO LOBO XAVIER
General Manager APED
Inês Santos
INÊS SANTOS
PhD Researcher
Isabel Loureiro
ISABEL LOUREIRO
Curious Scientist, Business Strategist, Innovation Advisor, Transformative explorer
James Ellsmoor
JAMES ELLSMOOR
CEO of Island Innovation
Joana Martins Mendes
JOANA MARTINS MENDES
Executive Director at APIP
João Miguel Nóbrega
JOÃO MIGUEL NÓBREGA
Associate Professor at the Polymer Engineering Department - University of Minho
Joel Vasco
JOEL VASCO
Associate Professor at the School of Technology and Management - Polytechnic Institute of Leiria and Research Member of Institute for Polymers and Composites
JOSÉ ANTONIO COSTA
General Manager of AIMPLAS
José Couto
JOSÉ COUTO
President of AFIA
Joseba Bilbatua
JOSEBA BILBATUA
Senior Manager Research and Technology of MONDRAGON Corporation
Leonor Picão
LEONOR PICÃO
Coordinating Director of the Resources and Supply Department at Turismo de Portugal, I.P.
Lucas da Silva
LUCAS DA SILVA
Professor of mechanical engineering at FEUP
LUÍS CAMPOS
President of the Portuguese Council for Health and Environment | American College of Physicians Global Ambassador | Coordinator of Internal Medicine at CUF Belém Clinic
LUÍSA MAGALHÃES
Executive Director at ASWP
Luísa Santos
LUÍSA SANTOS
Editor-in-Chief of InterPlast, the Portuguese plastics magazine
Marc Monnin
MARC MONNIN
General Manager at CEP
Marco Monti
MARCO MONTI
R&D Project Manager at Proplast
Margarida Bento
MARGARIDA BENTO
Coordinator of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at FIPA
Margarida Couto
MARGARIDA COUTO
Partner of VdA
Maria Callapez
MARIA CALLAPEZ
Principal Investigador at CIUHST-FCUL
MARIA JOÃO RAUCH
Manager of the SDSN Portugal
Marisa Lameiras da Silva
MARISA LAMEIRAS DA SILVA
Director General for Maritime Policy, Portugal
Maurício Jaroski
MAURÍCIO JAROSKI
Executive Director & Circular Economy Specialist at MaxiQuim
Mercês Ferreira
MERCÊS FERREIRA
Adviser of Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Environment
MIGUEL ARANDA DA SILVA
Managing Director of SDR Portugal
Miguel Oliveira
MIGUEL OLIVEIRA
Consultant
Milena Parnigoni
MILENA PARNIGONI
Recycling & Recyclability Expert at Logoplaste Innovation Lab
Mónica Conde
MÓNICA CONDE
Founder of Ambiente Plástico Magazine and Director of Grupo Ambiente Plástico
Mónica Luízio
MÓNICA LUÍZIO
Director of Compliance and Projects at Electrão
Monika Romenska
MONIKA ROMENSKA
Regulatory & Public Affairs Manager at EXPRA
Nick Sandland
NICK SANDLAND
Chief Business Officer at Algenesis Labs
Orleane Brito
ORLEANE BRITO
PhD Student in Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto; Professor (on academic leave) at the Federal Institute of Bahia (IFBA), Brazil
Oscar Salas
OSCAR SALAS
International Programs Manager at FUNDACION GAIKER
Patrícia Carvalho
PATRÍCIA CARVALHO
Coordinator of the Portuguese Plastics Pact
Patrícia Franganito
PATRÍCIA FRANGANITO
Country Manager at Bureau Veritas Portugal
Paul Hodges
PAUL HODGES
Chairman at New Normal Consulting
Paula Sobral
PAULA SOBRAL
Professor at NOVA FCT and Researcher at MARE
Paulo Gomes
PAULO GOMES
CSO, Senior Consultant and Partner at Green Materials
Pedro Pablo Díaz
PEDRO PABLO DÍAZ
Former VP of The Coca Cola Company and Former Ambassador of Chile to Portugal
Pedro Martins
PEDRO MARTINS
Executive Managing Director of Plastipak Europe
PLÁCIDO ALBUQUERQUE
Circular Economy Director at Mercadona Portugal
QINGHUA MI
Director of Science & Technology and Development Planning at Shandong Agricultural University
Ricardo Pereira
RICARDO PEREIRA
Chief Executive Officer at Sirplaste, S.A.
Rute Viais
RUTE VIAIS
Manager GBS Project Management at ADIDAS
Sara Balonas
SARA BALONAS
Assistant professor at the University of Minho and researcher at Communication and Society Research Centre (CECS)
Sara Moreno Pires
SARA MORENO PIRES
University of Aveiro Professor and Researcher
SÉRGIO FONSECA
Specialist in management systems to support sustainability and decarbonization
Sílvia Machado
SÍLVIA MACHADO
Executive Director for Sustainability | Portuguese Business Confederation (CIP)
Teresa Borba
TERESA BORBA
General Manager at APIGRAF
Victor Neto
VICTOR NETO
Associate Professor, University of Aveiro
Yağmur Eroğlu
YAĞMUR EROĞLU
General Manager of CERTILOOP and Board Member of PAGÇEV
Zhanjie Wang
ZHANJIE WANG
President of China Plastics Processing Industry Association (CPPIA)
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Marta Moreira Marques

Marta Moreira Marques
Assistant Professor at the National School of Public Health, NOVA University of Lisbon / Associate for the Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London

Expert Commitee Coordinator  

Assistant Professor at the National School of Public Health, NOVA University of Lisbon, and Associate for the Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London (PhD in Health Psychology from Leiden University), Marta has achievements recognised by prestigious international awards, and was invited to join expert commissions (e.g Portuguese Behavioral Science COVID-19 Task Force), and contributed to various international consortium grants (e.g. EU H2020, NIH). Research focuses on applying behaviour change models to develop and evaluate complex interventions targeting a range of behaviours in health and sustainability. 

Jorge Coelho

Jorge Coelho
Full professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Coimbra and Scientific Leader of Sustainable Plastics Agenda

Expert Committee Scientific Coordinator

Jorge Coelho, (CEng., Ph.D.,), is a full professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Coimbra. His research interests include reversible deactivation radical polymerization, bio-based and biodegradable polymers, novel pharmaceutical products, scale-up and polymer characterization methods (especially dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and size exclusion chromatography). He has published 228 papers in international journals and is co-author of several international patents (WO2020089807; WO2019239266; WO2017130094A1; WO2014027910A1, EP2890747B1, US9603935B2, WO2021053529). He has (co-)supervised 20 PhD students (12 ongoing) and more than 50 MSc students. As a research leader, he has received around €9 million in research funding and has been involved in more than 25 projects. He is a member of the Board of the Portuguese Society of Materials and responsible for the Polymers and Composites Department of the same society. He is the national representative of EMPA – European Association for Preventive, Predictive and Personalised Medicine and the national representative of EPF – European Polymer Federation. He is vice-president of Instituto Pedro Nunes. 

Bernard Merkx

Bernard Merkx
CEO/Owner GreenWavePlastics

Expert Committee Industry Coordinator 

Bernard Merkx is a Dutch social entrepreneur who held several senior management positions in the international plastics recycling and plastics converting industry for nearly 25 years, before starting his own advisory company, GreenWavePlastics in 2011.  

Bernard holds a degree in Business Administration (Polytechnics), is member of several international advisory committees and is co-author of several studies and booklets. 

Bernard is and has been Senior Advisor of Brussels based trade associations European Plastics Converters (EuPC) and Polymer Comply Europe (PCE) since many years. Next to that he is Managing Director of European trade association ESWA (European Single ply Waterproofing Association) and Secretary General of EuPC sector group PET Sheet Europe.  

Bernard is also among others CIO and Board of Directors Member of Plastix AS in Denmark, Honorary President of Plastics Recyclers Europe, co-founder of Waste Free Oceans Foundation and has a vast international network both in the public and private sector.  

He is Advisory Board member of the Portuguese Sustainable Plastics Project and Member of the Strategic Committee of the Roadmap Decarbonisation of the Plastics Industry 

Circularity has been a key driver throughout his career.  

His credo “Doing nothing is not an option”.  

Nuno Aguiar

Nuno Aguiar
Technical Director at APIP

Nuno Aguiar holds a degree in Environmental Engineering from NOVA School of Science and Technology (FCT NOVA), Lisbon. 

With over 20 years of experience in waste management, plastics recycling and the packaging industry, he served as Operations Manager at PLASTVAL for 12 years. 

Since 2018, he is Technical Director at APIP – the Portuguese Plastics Industry Association – where he coordinates technical areas and leads several projects, including the “Roadmap for the Decarbonisation of the Plastics Industry” and the Mobilising Agenda “Sustainable Plastics”. 

He is also an accredited auditor under RecyClass certification schemes, namely for recycling process and recycled plastic content, and has been part of the coordination of the Advisory Committee of the Portuguese Plastics Pact. 

Alicia Martin

Alicia Martin
General Director at Plastics Europe Ibérica Region

Member of the Expert Committee

Alicia has more than 20 years of professional experience in the plastics industry and held various management and leadership positions at Plastics Europe in the areas of sustainability, consumer protection, product stewardship, and institutional relations, both nationally and in Europe. She has also collaborated with multinational companies in the plastics sector in the implementation of their sustainability and circular economy strategies. 

Alicia holds a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Salamanca and a master’s degree in Advanced Specialization in Plastics and Rubber from the CSIC (Spanish National Research Council). She also trained in the development of leadership skills at IESE Business School in Barcelona. 

Alicia believes in science, innovation, and in the benefits that plastics bring to society. Her goal is to help the plastic sector to achieve a profound systemic change, because living without plastics is neither possible nor sustainable.

Ana Cristina Carrola

Ana Cristina Carrola
Member of the Board of Directors at Portuguese Environment Agency

Member of the Expert Committee

Ana Cristina Carrola has a degree in Chemical Engineering from Higher Technical Institute of Lisbon in the area of Processes and Industry branch and a Post-Graduation in Water Quality and Pollution Control from the Civil Engineering Department of the Science and Technology Faculty of the University of Coimbra. 

She develops and monitors issues in the environmental area since 1994, when she started public service functions at the Water Institute. 

At APA she is responsible for the technical areas of Waste, Environmental Licensing, Environmental Reference Laboratory and its regional network and circular economy. 

Ana Oliveira

Ana Oliveira
Director of Quality and Food Safety 

Member of the Expert Committee

Accomplished professional with 15 years of experience in the food industry and logistics, demonstrated expertise in managing standards (ISO and GFSI), and innovation and development projects across national and international settings. Over the past 3 years, I have focused on sustainability, pursuing a PhD in sustainability sciences, with a background in ESG strategy, reporting, roadmap development, and emissions calculations. Recognized for strong leadership, strategic team guidance, and a collaborative, empathetic, and resilient approach. Dedicated to creating a positive impact in business and fostering continuous learning and development.

Ana Paula Rodrigues
Vice-President of ADENE - Agência para a Energia

Member of the Expert Committee

Ana Paula Rodrigues holds a degree in Environmental Engineering from the Nova School of Science and Technology of Universidade Nova de Lisboa (FCT/UNL) and a postgraduate degree in Environmental Systems Management from ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon. 

With over 25 years of experience in environment and climate action, she is Vice-President of the Board of ADENE since May 2023. She was Director of the Climate Change Department at APA (2022–2023) and advisor to the Minister for the Environment and Climate Action (2017–2022). She has held several roles in project management and policy coordination, including at APA, the Portuguese Carbon Fund, and in various governmental and technical positions. 

Ana Pires

Ana Pires
CEO and Co-Founder of DIMERA

Member of the Expert Committee

Ana Pires is the Co-founder of DIMERA, a deep tech startup focused on accelerating materials discovery. 

She has over 20 years of experience in sustainability metrics, life cycle assessment, carbon footprint, and circular economy. 

She has participated in more than 20 national and international R&D projects in areas such as municipal solid waste, construction and demolition waste, packaging, batteries, and the automotive sector. 

Ana was also an invited lecturer at the Polytechnic Institute of Leiria and NOVA University of Lisbon. 

She holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from NOVA University of Lisbon.

 

Ana Quintas

Ana Quintas
Portugal Country Lead & Senior Sustainability Coach at Sustenuto

Member of the Expert Committee

Ana leads Sustenuto’s sustainability initiatives in Portugal and is an experienced circular economy and sustainability coach. Her work spans consulting, education, international collaboration, and innovation. With a strong background in implementing circular strategies and sustainability standards, Ana supports both public and private clients. She lectures at Cambridge Judge Business School and holds advanced degrees in environmental and circular engineering. Ana also serves with Engineers Without Borders and the Portuguese Engineers Association.

Ángela Osma

Ángela Osma
Technical manager at ANAIP

Member of the Expert Committee

Ángela Osma holds a Master’s degree in Polymer and Rubber Science and Technology from the ICTP Institute, part of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). 

At ANAIP, she has taken on various roles, including positions within the organization itself and in collaboration with external entities. Her experience includes serving as Secretary of the Spanish Plastics Committee for Standardization, engaging with industry associations, and coordinating international projects. 

She currently serves as Secretary of ASOBIOCOM, the Spanish Association of Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics.

António Pontes

António Pontes
Associate Professor at Department of Polymer Engineering of the University of Minho

Member of the Expert Committee

António J. Pontes is Associate Professor at the University of Minho since 2002, with a PhD in Polymer Processing and Design. His work focuses on the design and development of polymer products and nonconventional processing. 

He has coordinated over 45 R&D projects, including industrial collaborations, and authored/co-authored 20 book chapters and over 250 publications. 

Since 2012, he coordinates the Bosch-UMinho partnership. He is Director of the Institute of Polymers and Composites (since 2024) and has served on PIEP’s Board since 2013.

Bruno Silva

Bruno Pereira da Silva
Public Affairs and Sustainability Director at PIEP

Member of the Expert Committee

Bruno Pereira da Silva is the Public Affairs and Sustainability Director at PIEP, the Innovation Center in Polymer Engineering at the University of Minho. In this role, he leads research, development, and innovation initiatives focused on the Circular Economy and Sustainability, working in close collaboration with national and international industry stakeholders across multiple sectors, including packaging, aeronautics, automotive, space, defense, and energy. 

He represents PIEP in various strategic platforms at both national and international levels, contributing to the advancement of sustainable policies and industrial practices. He currently participates in the Circular Plastics Alliance, APIP – Portuguese Plastics Industry Association, ASWP – Smart Waste Portugal, PFP – Portuguese Railway Platform, ECP4 – European Composites, Plastics and Polymer Processing Platform, and the IAM – Innovative Advanced Materials Initiative. Through these roles, he actively promotes sustainable innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and the alignment of industrial practices with European and global sustainability objectives. 

He holds a degree in Polymer Engineering from the University of Minho and a specialization in Design and Manufacturing of Automotive Components from the University of Porto. He has also completed advanced training in Project Management and the Advanced Management Programme at Porto Business School, as well as the Executive Programme in ESG Corporate and Non-Financial Reporting at ISEG – Executive Education in Economics and Management.

Carla Pinto

Carla Pinto
Director of the Department on Corporate Sustainability (Directorate-General for Economic Activities)

Member of the Expert Committee

Carla Pinto has a degree in Environmental Engineering (NOVA School of Science and Technology) and was a seconded national expert at the European Commission (DG ENV). She is since 2017 Director of the Department on Corporate Sustainability within the Directorate-General for Economic Activities, contributing to the definition of public circular economy and sustainable development policies, including the management of the EU Ecolabel system, the Ecodesign Regulation, Extended Producer Responsibility schemes and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct. 

Carla Pinto

Carla Pinto
Executive Director of APCC - Portuguese Association of Shopping Centers

Member of the Expert Committee

Carla Pinto is the Executive Director of APCC – Portuguese Association of Shopping Centers.  

At an academic level, is an Invited Professor and Researcher at the Portuguese Catholic University.  

Former Capital and Debt Manager at Banco Português de Fomento (a financial company which has the nature of a national promotion bank), Board Advisor at PME Investimentos – Sociedade de Investimento S.A (one of the three institutions at the origin of Banco Português de Fomento), Executive Vice-president at Cooperativa António Sérgio para a Economia Social – CASES (the entity responsible for social economy policies in Portugal), Project Manager in the health area, both in the public and private sectors and consultant in several entities and projects. 

Has also performed various functions in structuring, implementing, developing and managing public and private projects.  

Holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an Executive MBA AESE/IESE.

 

Carla Velez

Carla Velez
Secretary General at ESGRA

Member of the Expert Committee

Carla Velez holds a Law degree from the University of Lisbon (1996) and practised law until 1999. 

She is currently Advisor to the Board of AVALER – Association of Entities for the Energy Recovery of Urban Waste, and Secretary-General of ESGRA – Association for Waste Management. 

She previously served as Legal Advisor in the Ministry of Economy, Deputy Director-General at the Ministry of Culture, and Legal Advisor to the Operational Intervention of the Ministry of Economy. 

She also worked with JRS – Jesuit Refugee Service as Legal Advisor and Advocacy Officer.

Carlos Bernardo

Carlos Bernardo
Emeritus Professor / Minho University

Member of the Expert Committee

Carlos Bernardo is an Emeritus Professor of the Polymer Engineering Department at Minho University, Portugal. Formerly, he was dean of the School of Engineering and Vice-Rector at that University. His research interests were the processing and characterisation of composites with polymeric matrices and glass and carbon fibres, the sustainable use of plastic materials, and environmental evaluation techniques such as Life Cycle Assessment and Life Cycle Costing. He has authored more than 100 publications, including 70 plus articles in international refereed journals, and co-edited 5 books. 

César Coutinho

César Coutinho
Chief Technology Officer at BIKiNNOV

Member of the Expert Committee

César Coutinho holds a degree (2008) and a master’s (2014) in Electrical Engineering from Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa. With vast experience in metrology, laboratory testing, and industrial automation, he is currently the Chief Technology Officer at BIKiNNOV – Bike Value Innovation Center, leading technological strategies for innovation in mobility. César was formerly the technical head of Metrology, Materials, Surfaces, and Chemistry labs at ABIMOTA. He is an active member of ISO/TC 149 and CEN/TC 333.

Cristina Costa

Cristina Costa
Environmental Engineer at APIAM - PROBEB

Member of the Expert Committee

Cristina Costa is an environmental engineer with extensive experience in environmental management, occupational health and safety, and sustainability in the drinks sector. As an independent consultant and trainer, she works in the areas of environment, sustainability and OHS. She currently manages the Packaging and Sustainability Committee of APIAM and PROBEB, supporting these associations and their members in the transition to a Circular Economy and playing an active role in the implementation of the Deposit and Refund System for beverage packaging in Portugal.

Cristina Monge Frontiñan

Cristina Monge Frontiñán
Secretary General AVEP

Member of the Expert Committee

Cristina Monge Frontiñán is Secretary General of AVEP, the Valencian Plastics Association, since 2006. With a background in Economics and Business from Universidad Carlos III and Maastricht, she has vast experience in institutional representation, international trade promotion, and EU projects in sustainability and innovation. Previously a Financial Controller and Software Engineer, she also lectures on circular economy and has authored studies on industrial trends and regulatory matters.

Dâmaso Silva

Dâmaso Silva
PV and Sustainability Consultant

Member of the Expert Committee

Completed advanced studies on Renewable and Energy Efficiency at Univ. de Aveiro. Founded D2M-Energytransit in 2012 which made Floating Solar its core technology from the start. From 2014 till May 2023 represented Ciel et Terre International and was part of construction team of 3 Floating Solar plants operating – Alto Rabagão (EDP); Cegonha and Cuba-Este (EDIA). Since June 2023 it is representing ISIGENERE, Iberian leader of Floating Solar systems, supplying – among others – the highly awarded EDP’s 5 MWp Alqueva plant. Agro–PV technology is another specialized field of his activity within Portuguese Market. 

Daniela Cordova

Daniela Cordova Pizarro
International Constant on Circular Economy

Member of the Expert Committee

Daniela holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences specializing in Circular Economy and a Master’s in Sustainable Development, with over 15 years of experience in plastics, manufacturing, oil, mining, tourism, and electronics. As an international consultant and project manager, she leads initiatives in Latin America, Asia, and Africa, advancing circular economy strategies, sustainable innovation, and waste management. Her expertise includes evaluating industrial processes for circularity, fostering eco-design innovation, and enhancing competitiveness. Daniela has collaborated with WBG, IDB, UNIDO, WEF, and CTCN on optimizing the plastics sector and developing circular economy roadmaps.

Elsa Agante

Elsa Agante
Team Leader of Energy and Sustainability at DECO PROteste

Member of the Expert Committee

Elsa Agante, PhD in Earth Sciences and Engineering from Imperial College London, has been working in the environmental sector since 2020. She is currently Team Leader of Energy and Sustainability at DECO PROteste, the largest consumer organization in Portugal and part of the Euroconsumers group. With a focus on consumers, Elsa is responsible for creating content, developing projects and co-operating with national and international stakeholders to promote more sustainable products and services. External representation and coordination of international sustainability projects are also her responsibility. 

Fausto Freire

Fausto Freire
Prof at Univ Coimbra & coordinator of the Center for Industrial Ecology

Member of the Expert Committee

Fausto Freire is Associate Professor at the Dep of Mechanical Eng., Univ of Coimbra (UC), focusing on developing and implementing life-cycle based approaches and Circular Economy systems to enhance the sustainability of products and systems. Faculty at the MIT-Portugal program and MIT visiting Scholar (2011-2012). Fulbright Scholar at the University of Michigan in 2008. Has studied and coordinated several projects on industrial, energy and transportation systems, including plastic products and packaging. Currently, is focused on ecodesign and implementation of Circular Economy systems, as well as extending LCA to include uncertainty, MCDA, optimization and economic aspects. Named to the Reuters Hot List of the world’s top climate scientists, which identify the 1000 most influential scientists. Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Cleaner Environmental, Elsevier.

Fátima Poças

Fátima Poças
Researcher and Professor at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP)

Member of the Expert Committee

Fátima Poças holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering (University of Porto), an MSc in Packaging (Michigan State University), and a PhD in Biotechnology – Food Science and Engineering (UCP).  

She coordinates the Packaging Laboratory (since 1990) and the Centre for Food Quality and Safety (since 2013) at UCP. 

Her research focuses on the safety and quality of packaged foods, including migration, recyclability of plastics, bio-based materials, permeability, shelf-life, and active packaging. 

She represents UCP and Portugal in national and European scientific and technical bodies.

Federica Gallicchio

Federica Gallicchio
Managing Director at EuPC – European Plastics Converters

Member of the Expert Committee

Federica is Managing Director at EuPC, where she leads EU advocacy, strategic direction, governance, and stakeholder relations for the plastics converting industry. She previously held senior roles within EuPC, focusing on regulatory and public affairs, and led R&D organisations to advance their transition towards circular economy models. 

Before joining EuPC, she worked as an assistant to a Member of the European Parliament in the ENVI Committee, contributing to legislative drafting and policy analysis in the field of environmental policy. 

She holds a Master’s Degree in Law from the University of Salerno.

 

Fernando Leite

Fernando Leite
CEO at LIPOR

Member of the Expert Committee

Fernando Leite holds a degree in Economics from the University of Porto and a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Business Management from AESE Business School (Portugal). 

He has been the CEO of LIPOR since 1999, a Board Member of MAIAMBIENTE, the Municipal Environmental Company of Maia, a Board Member of Porto Energy Agency, a Member of the Board of AVALER (Association of Energy Recovery Entities for Municipal Solid Waste), a Board Member of GRACE, a Member of the Board of ACR+ (Association of Cities and Regions for Sustainable Resource Management), and the representative of AVALER at CEWEP (Confederation of European Waste-to-Energy Plants). 

Fernando Ventura

Fernando Ventura
Environment Global Director at Jerónimo Martins, SGPS

Member of the Expert Committee

Fernando Ventura holds a Chemical Engineering degree from ISEL and a postgraduate qualification in Industrial Engineering from FCT NOVA. He completed the Advanced Management Program for Executives at Católica Lisbon School of Business and Economics. He is currently Environment Global Director at Jerónimo Martins, SGPS. With experience in environmental management and sustainability, he focuses on process efficiency, (eco)innovation, climate and water strategies, circular economy, biodiversity, and integration of environmental issues into supply chains.

Filipa Bessa

Filipa Bessa
Professor at University of Coimbra and Researcher at CFE

Member of the Expert Committee

Filipa Bessa is a marine biologist and holds a PhD in Biosciences (Marine Ecology). She is a Professor at the University of Coimbra and researcher at Centre of FuncBonal Ecology. 

Her work has involved extensive research on the sources, distribution, and effects of various pollutants, including (micro)plastics on aquatic ecosystems and organisms. 

She is actively involved in policy actions, serving as a member of the European Scientific Advice Mechanism (SAM) and GESAMP (Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environmental Protection), the international authorities on marine environmental protection. She recently co-designed a Zero Pollution Manifesto for the Portuguese UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.

Filipa Pantaleão

Filipa Pantaleão
Secretary General at BCSD Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Filipa Pantaleão holds a degree in Environmental Engineering from NOVA University Lisbon and an MBA from Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics. 

She began her career in the waste sector and has held leadership roles across environmental services, infrastructure, and sustainability. 

With international experience in Europe, Africa, Latin America, and Asia, she now serves as Secretary General of BCSD Portugal, leading corporate sustainability initiatives and fostering strategic partnerships.

Francis Huysman
Managing Director at Valipac and Fost Plus

Member of the Expert Committee

Francis Huysman was as project manager at PwC involved in creation of collection systems for packaging waste in Belgium from the very beginning. He was never let go of the microbe. In 1997, he joined Valipac, the producer responsibility organisation for the circularity of industrial packaging. He holds the role of managing director since 2017. 

Since September 2024, he has shared this role with Fost Plus, the producer responsibility organisation for the sustainable management of household packaging materials. His aim is to further strengthen the synergies between both organisations in order to develop Belgium’s leading role in the field of packaging management. 

Gil Nadais
Secretary-General of ABIMOTA

Member of the Expert Committee

Gil Nadais is Secretary-General of ABIMOTA, representing Portugal’s two-wheel, hardware, furniture, and related industries, and Executive Director of BIKiNNOV – Bike Value Innovation Center Association. 

With 20+ years of leadership, including 12 years as Mayor of Águeda, he champions innovation, sustainable mobility, regional and industrial development. 

He leads projects in circular economy, digitalization, and cross-sector alliances. Deeply engaged in public policy, international networks, and industry transformation, he shares the Plastics Summit’s commitment to global sustainability and positive change. 

Gonçalo Lobo Xavier

Gonçalo Lobo Xavier
General Manager APED

Member of the Expert Committee

Since September 2018, Gonçalo Lobo Xavier is the General Manager of APED – the Portuguese Association for the retail companies; the sector represents 12% of Portuguese GDP and the association aggregates 208 affiliates from food and nonfood area.   

Gonçalo is member of the EESC -European Economic and Social Committee appointed by CIP (Portuguese Business Confederation) since 2011, member of ECO, INT, CCMI groups,  Vice-President for the European Semester Group and former President of the European Semester Group (2018-2020) and Former Vice President for Communication (2015/2017)  

Gonçalo Lob Xavier previously worked for more than 12 years for the Portuguese industry in different sectors namely the most relevant for industrial exports, metallurgical, mechanical engineering. He also has a business degree from Minho University and did the Global Advanced Leadership Program –IMD Lausanne and the Advanced Administration Program at Porto Business School  

Gonçalo speaks fluently Portuguese, English, French and Spanish and practices jogging in a regular basis (Berlin Marathon, 2016; Rotterdam Marathon, 2018 and counting) and is a proud father of two.

Inês Santos

Inês Santos
PhD Researcher

Member of the Expert Committee

Inês Santos is a PhD researcher at Zuyderland Medical Center Sittard-Geleen from Open Universiteit (The Netherlands), exploring how micro- and nanoplastics affect human health.  

She is developing a new method to detect plastic particles in blood using flow cytometry and studying how they might influence cardiovascular diseases. By combining clinical data with environmental factors, her work aims to better understand real-life health risks and support informed decisions in medicine and public health.

Isabel Loureiro

Isabel Loureiro
Curious Scientist, Business Strategist, Innovation Advisor, Transformative explorer

Member of the Expert Committee

Isabel is a systems thinker dedicated to advancing green, digital, and fair transitions at both corporate and territorial levels. 

Currently, she serves as General Coordinator of Guimarães 2030 and Co-Director of the 2026 EGC program. She also contributes as an Expert to the European Commission and as a researcher at the University of Minho, with over 30 publications and ongoing lecturing in the field of human capital development. 

Passionate about sustainability, she mentors emerging professionals to help shape a more resilient and equitable future.

James Ellsmoor

James Ellsmoor
CEO of Island Innovation

Member of the Expert Committee

James Ellsmoor is an award-winning entrepreneur and CEO of Island Innovation, a consultancy focused on sustainable development. He works with islands worldwide, especially SIDS and sub-national jurisdictions. A Forbes columnist and sought-after speaker, James is known for his work in renewable energy and climate action. He founded the Virtual Island Summit to connect global island communities, promoting sustainability and showcasing island leadership on key global challenges.

Joana Martins Mendes

Joana Martins Mendes
Executive Director at APIP

Member of the Expert Committee

Joana holds a law degree from Universidade Católica Portuguesa and has completed executive programs in leadership, management, and energy from top institutions. 

With over 20 years of experience, she is a strategic leader and legal expert who has worked across high-impact sectors such as plastics, renewable energy, engineering, and telecommunications. 

She has held senior roles in multinational companies, specializing in corporate governance, M&A, and regulatory affairs. 

Joana Martins Mendes is currently the Executive Director of APIP – the Portuguese Plastics Industry Association.

João Miguel Nóbrega

João Miguel Nóbrega
Associate Professor at the Polymer Engineering Department - University of Minho

Member of the Expert Committee

João Miguel Nóbrega is an Associate Professor at the Polymer Engineering Department within the University of Minho and a member of the Institute for Polymers and Composites. He completed his PhD in Polymer Science and Engineering from the University of Minho in 2004. 

He leads Digital Transformation in Manufacturing for MIT Portugal and is editor of OpenFOAM Wiki and Journal. 

His research spans product development, polymer processing, and rheology, focusing on computational tools for complex materials. 

He co-founded Iberian OpenFOAM Users, serves on the OpenFOAM Workshop Committee, and promotes science outreach as a board member of the Guimarães Science Museum. 

Joel Vasco

Joel Vasco
Associate Professor at the School of Technology and Management - Polytechnic Institute of Leiria and Research Member of the Institute for Polymers and Composites

Member of the Expert Committee

Joel Vasco holds a PhD in Science and Engineering of Polymers and Composites (2010) and a MSc in Mould Design and Manufacturing (2006), both degrees from the University of Minho, Portugal.  

He is, currently, the vice-director of the PhD in Direct Digital Manufacturing, in collaboration with University of Minho. He conducts research on polymer processing, subtractive/formative/ additive manufacturing processes and direct digital manufacturing.  Currently he is the Co-PI of “Sustainable Plastics”, coordinating WP5-Sustainable Products and Co-PI of “Smart Pack”, coordinating WP4- Recycling Technologies. 

José Antonio Costa
General Manager of AIMPLAS

Member of the Expert Committee

José Antonio Costa Mocholí holds a degree in Physics from the University of Valencia and is the General Manager of AIMPLAS. With over 28 years at the institute, he has led various management roles and promoted R&D&I transfer to society and industry. He completed the PDD (2008) and PADE (2025) at IESE. Since 2009, he has been AIMPLAS’s director. He serves on the Boards of ANAIP, AVEP, and REDIT, and was Vice President of FEDIT (2014–2018), where he now sits on the Council.

José Couto

José Couto
President of AFIA

Member of the Expert Committee

José Couto holds a degree in Economics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing, and an MBA. 

Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in various industry sectors, primarily serving as a Manager, Board Member, and Entrepreneur. He has also engaged in business development activities as a Business Angel and in the field of Venture Capital. 

Since 2019, José Couto has served as President of the Board of Directors of AFIA – the Portuguese Association of Automotive Suppliers, and is also a Board Member of CLEPA – the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, as well as of CIP – the Portuguese Business Confederation.

Joseba Bilbatua

Joseba Bilbatua
Senior Manager Research and Technology of MONDRAGON Corporation

Member of the Expert Committee

Joseba Bilbatua is responsible for Advanced Manufacturing and Materials projects at the headquarters of MONDRAGON Corporation. 

Joseba holds a Physics bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Basque Country (UPV‑EHU) and a Master of Science (MSc) in Advanced Manufacturing Technologies from the Engineering School of Bilbao. 

He gained an honor Degree of Science in Physics from the University of the Basque Country. Joseba is committed to the most relevant European manufacturing and materials initiatives: he is a member of the Partnership Board at the European Factories of the Future Research Association (EFFRA) and member of the HLG at the European Technology Platform MANUFUTURE. 

Since January 2025, Joseba has been a member of the Executive Committee of the Innovative Advanced Materials Initiative (IAM-I).

 

Leonor Picão

Leonor Picão
Coordinating Director of the Resources and Supply Department at Turismo de Portugal, I.P.

Member of the Expert Committee

Responsible for the REVIVE Program, the Clean & Safe Project and for the Sustainability in Tourism subject (coordinator of the 20-23 Sustainable Tourism Plan).  

As part of the Portuguese Quality System, she has assumed the position of Chairman of the Technical Committee for Standardisation in Tourism – TC 144 – Tourist Services, since 2017.  

Expert in the following working groups: Climate Change (National Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change (ENAAC) – 1st and 2nd Phase and Tourism Sector Group); European Environment Information and Observation Network – TOUERM (Tourism and Environment Reporting Mechanism); National Committee of UNESCO’s Man & Biosphere Program; Green Growth; Desertification; Technical Committee 228 – Tourism and Related Services.

Lucas da Silva

Lucas da Silva
Professor of mechanical engineering at FEUP

Member of the Expert Committee

Lucas F. M. da Silva is a Professor at Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP) and leads INEGI’s Advanced Joining Processes Unit. His research focuses on how temperature, moisture, creep, and fatigue affect adhesive joints. The group’s scope now includes welding and plastic deformation. He edits six journals, organizes conferences, has transferred technology to key industries, and advises EU funding programs and NATO. 

He obtained his PhD in structural adhesive bonding of composites from the University of Bristol (United Kingdom) in 2004 and Aggregation from FEUP in 2011.

 

Luís Campos

Luís Campos
President of the Portuguese Council for Health and Environment | American College of Physicians Global Ambassador | Coordinator of Internal Medicine at CUF Belém Clinic

Member of the Expert Committee

Luís Campos is the founder and current president of the Portuguese Council for Health and Environment. He serves as Global Ambassador of the American College of Physicians, commissioner of the National Health Plan 2021–2030, and advisor to the General Directorate of Health. 

Previously, Luís Campos was coordinator of the Hospital Care Team for the Implementation of Health Policies of the Portuguese Ministry of Health, director of the Emergency Department of the Western Area of  Lisbon, director of the Internal Medicine Department of Saint Francisco Xavier Hospital, in Lisbon, invited professor of NOVA Medical School, president of the Portuguese Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM) and president of the National Council for Quality in Healthcare.

Luísa Magalhães
Executive Director at ASWP

Member of the Expert Committee

Luísa Magalhães is an Environmental Engineer with a Master of Science in Environmental Diagnostics since 2002. From 2002 to 2016, she worked as a consultant at SPI – Sociedade Portuguesa de Inovação (Portuguese Society for Innovation). From 2004 to 2016, she performed activities of advising public bodies in the environmental area at Lisbon Municipality and Lisboa E-Nova – Lisbon’s Agency for Energy and Environment. Since september of 2016, she is the Executive Director of Smart Waste Portugal Association, being responsible for the direct contact with more than 140 Associate Members and promoting collaborative work and business.

Luísa Santos

Luísa Santos
Editor-in-Chief of InterPlast, the Portuguese plastics magazine

Member of the Expert Committee

Luísa Santos holds a degree in Social Communication and has over 20 years of experience in the editorial field, more specifically in the technical publications area. 

Currently, she is the Editor-in-Chief of InterPLAST, a leading Portuguese magazine focused on the plastics industry, published by Interempresas Media, an Iberian company specializing in B2B communication platforms. 

Since 2019, she has guided the publication with a strong editorial emphasis on sustainability, ensuring it remains a key reference for professionals in the sector.

Marc Monnin

Marc Monnin
General Manager at CEP

Member of the Expert Committee

Chemical Engineer with 30+ years dealing in premium businesses in industrial, chemical & plastics sector. At the head of Centro Español de Plásticos, helping the stakeholders in strengthening their network and in establishing a responsible culture by promoting the proper use of plastic materials and their circularity.

Marco Monti

Marco Monti
R&D Project Manager at Proplast

Member of the Expert Committee

Marco Monti has been working in Proplast as a R&D project manager since 2011. Since 2016, he is also member of Proplast’s cluster management team, with special focus on internationalization activities of SMEs. 

He obtained his degree in Materials Engineering in 2005 and his PhD in Material Nanotechnology in 2009 at University of Perugia (Italy), where he kept working as a postdoc researcher until 2011. During his academic career, he was visiting scientist at Polytechnic Institute of NYU (New York) and at Tecnalia technology centre (San Sebastian – Spain). 

His research interest is in polymer sustainability, with specific focus on recycling, biopolymers and biocomposites. It also includes fiber reinforced composites, nanocomposites, electric and dielectric properties. 

He is co-author of 40 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, one chapter of the Wiley Encyclopedia of Composites, one chapter on Smart Packaging (Nova Science) and several articles in other Italian technical journals.

 

Margarida Bento

Margarida Bento
Coordinator of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at FIPA

Member of the Expert Committee

Margarida Bento is an Environmental Engineer with a postgraduate degree in Safety and Health at work. From 2003 to 2007, she worked at Sovena as an Environmental Engineer and was also responsible for the safety and health at work. Since 2007, she has been the Coordinator of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at FIPA, where she leads the FIPA Environment Working Group. She advises on all technical activities related to sustainability and the environment and represents FIPA in technical working groups of the public administration. 

Margarida Couto

Margarida Couto
Partner of VdA

Member of the Expert Committee

Margarida Couto is a founding partner of the law firm Vieira de Almeida & Associados (VdA), having practiced law primarily in regulated sectors and in the areas of social economy and human rights until 2021. 

In recent years, she has dedicated her professional activity to the field of Sustainability in general and to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) topics in particular. She is a frequent speaker at conferences, coordinates ESG Executive Programs, and teaches at various higher education institutions in Portugal. 

She was President of GRACE – Responsible Business from 2018 to 2024. 

She is a non-executive director at CTT – Correios de Portugal, CEO of the Vasco Vieira de Almeida Foundation, and a member of the Board of Trustees of the EDP Foundation, the Santander Foundation, the Mendes Gonçalves Foundation and the University of Aveiro. She also serves on the National Council of the Aga Khan Foundation.

 

Maria Callapez

Maria Callapez
Principal Investigador at CIUHST-FCUL

Member of the Expert Committee

Maria Elvira Callapez holds a Ph.D. in History and Philosophy of Science. She is PI of the project Metamorphoses of plastics – the reality and multiple approaches to a material, at Centro Interuniversitário de História da Ciência e Tecnologia-Faculdade de CiÊncias, Universidade de Lisboa (CIUHCT-FCUL). She has been a Visiting Scholar at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research interests and publications focus on the history of plastics, material culture studies, and environmental regulation.

Maria João Rauch

Maria João Rauch
Manager of the SDSN Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Maria João Rauch is a Diplom-Engineer that worked for the Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity in Portugal and now is registered as an independent consultant in Munich – Germany. 

With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in programme evaluation and socio-economic development, with a focus on labour market and social policies. She has contributed to EU pre-accession technical assistance in countries like Romania, Turkey and Croatia, and worked in public administration in Portugal and Germany. 

From 2023, she leads SDSN Portugal at CEiiA, promoting the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals through research-policy collaboration. 

Marisa Lameiras da Silva

Marisa Lameiras da Silva
Director General for Maritime Policy, Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Marisa is currently the Director General for Maritime Policy. In her daily work, Marisa drives innovation, preservation, and sustainable development of marine resources, promoting cooperation and collaboration. She has led environmental policies as Head of Strategy at the Portuguese Environmental Agency and adviser to the Ministers of Environment and the Sea, responsible for the coordination of the Action Plan for a Bioeconomy and also focusing on the Sustainable Ocean Economy and circular economy. With a background in Chemical Engineering and two MScs, she has expertise in policy, compliance, and strategic program management. Recently, she was appointed SDG 14 Ambassador of the SDG Alliance Portugal. 

Maurício Jaroski

Maurício Jaroski
Executive Director & Circular Economy Specialist at MaxiQuim

Member of the Expert Committee

Maurício Jaroski is a chemical engineer with a specialization in market intelligence and an MBA in Business Analytics. With over 15 years of experience at MaxiQuim consultancy, he is a leader in the field of circular economy, seeking sustainable business solutions for the entire chemical industry sector. In addition, he is the chief editor of bales and recycled resins price reports in Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile. Throughout his career, Maurício has led several projects that have been essential for investment decision-making and business strategies, demonstrating his ability to analyze complex data and transform it into valuable insights for MaxiQuim’s clients.

Mercês Ferreira

Mercês Ferreira
Adviser of Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Environment

Member of the Expert Committee

Mercês Ferreira holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and an MPA. With extensive experience in public administration, she held leadership roles from 1996 to 2024 in environmental management and sustainable development. Since April 2024, she has served as Adviser of Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Environment. Her career includes roles at APA (Portuguese Environment Agency), Vila Nova de Gaia Municipality, and SULDOURO. She has lectured in higher education, coordinated environmental projects, and contributed actively to professional and social institutions. 

Miguel Aranda da Silva
Managing Director of SDR Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Miguel Aranda da Silva is the Managing Director of SDR Portugal, the non-profit association responsible for operating the Deposit and Return System (SDR) for non-reusable plastic and metal beverage containers in Portugal. 

He previously worked at VEOLIA Portugal, where he led the waste management division. Prior to that, he held executive and management positions at companies such as VALORSUL (the company that manages the municipal solid waste treatment system from 19 municipalities in Greater Lisbon and the Western Region) and VALORLIS ((the company that manages the municipal solid waste treatment system in Alta Estremadura. 

He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from the Faculty of Science and Technology of NOVA University Lisbon. 

Miguel Oliveira

Miguel Oliveira
Consultant

Member of the Expert Committee

Miguel Oliveira holds an Executive MBA from AESE/IESE Business School, a Postgraduate Degree in Auditing and Management Control, and a Degree in Management. 

With over 16 years of experience as a Financial Manager in the private sector in both Ireland and Portugal, he transitioned to the public sector in 2015, working across the areas of environment, transport, and energy. 

He has held several key positions, including Chief Internal Auditor at Carris, Metropolitan Secretary of the Executive Committee at AMP, and Chief of Cabinet to the Secretary of State for the Environment at the Ministry of Environment and Energy, a role he held until 2025. 

Milena Parnigoni

Milena Parnigoni
Recycling & Recyclability Expert at Logoplaste Innovation Lab

Member of the Expert Committee

In 2005, she co-founded Ecoiberia, which is now the largest PET recycler in Portugal, processing approximately 150 tons of PET waste per day. Within the company, she played a key role, transitioning from Executive Management to Strategic Development. 

When Ecoiberia became part of Logoplaste, a leading rigid plastic packaging manufacturer, in 2022, she joined Logoplaste Innovation Lab, the company’s R&D department, as a Recycling & Recyclability Expert. In this role, she shapes the company’s approach to various aspects of plastic recycled materials and manages a pioneering Recyclability Assessment Laboratory. 

She collaborates globally with plastic recyclers, plastic converters associations, as well as Standardization and Certification bodies.

Mónica Conde

Mónica Conde
Founder of Ambiente Plástico Magazine and Director of Grupo Ambiente Plástico

Member of the Expert Committee

Mónica Conde is a Chemical Engineer from the Instituto Politécnico Nacional with over 35 years of experience in the plastics industry. She has led initiatives in market intelligence, education, and industry outreach. 

Founder of Ambiente Plástico magazine and current Director of Grupo Ambiente Plástico (Mexico), she is a recognized voice in Latin America for promoting sustainability and innovation in plastics through training, editorial work, and strategic networking.

 

Mónica Luízio

Mónica Luízio
Director of Compliance and Projects at Electrão

Member of the Expert Committee

Mónica Luízio holds a degree and master’s in Environmental Engineering from Instituto Superior Técnico. With over 20 years of experience, she is an expert in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). 

She is currently Director of Compliance and Projects at Electrão, overseeing government relations, audits, compliance, R&D, communication, IT and BI. She played a key role in developing waste systems for electrical equipment, batteries and packaging. 

Throughout her career, she has participated in several EU innovation projects, including WEEELABEX, ProSUM, C-SERVEES, CEWASTE, PANORAMA.

 

Monika Romenska

Monika Romenska
Regulatory & Public Affairs Manager at EXPRA

Member of the Expert Committee

Monika Romenska has held senior positions in public administration, Local authorities’ and Industry organizations in Bulgaria. Since 2014, Ms. Romenska is Regulatory & Public Affairs Manager at the Extended Producer Responsibility Alliance (EXPRA) based in Brussels, which acts as the authoritative voice and common policy platform for all its 34 member packaging recovery and recycling organizations founded and run by or on behalf of obliged industry. She has extensive experience in sustainable development, incl. waste management (focus on packaging), regional development, communications and project management.

Nick Sandland

Nick Sandland
Chief Business Officer at Algenesis Labs

Member of the Expert Committee

Working in the polymer industry for over 35 years and studied Polymer Technology & Materials Engineering at Loughborough University, in the UK. For the first part of his career he held a variety technical roles in rubber formulation, process and application development at companies such as BTR, Federal Mogul and Zeon. In 2006 he joined Teknor Apex in a commercial management position, relocating to the USA in 2008. He lead the commercial activities for the Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) business unit for many years and more recently a venture studio, created to scout startups for potential collaboration.  

In early 2024 he joined Algenesis Labs as Chief Business Officer to lead the commercialization of the company’s plant based and biodegradable Soleic branded Polyurethane technologies. The company mission is to eliminate microplastics from our world and they are focusing heavily on the footwear industry, due to the large usage of PU based materials, end of life management issues, plus creation of microplastics during use.

Orleane Brito

Orleane Brito
PhD Student in Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto; Professor (on academic leave) at the Federal Institute of Bahia (IFBA), Brazil

Member of the Expert Committee

Orleane Brito is a Brazilian Environmental Engineer and Professor at the Federal Institute of Bahia (IFBA). She is currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), Portugal. 

Her research focuses on the environmental dispersion of asbestos fibers and risk mitigation strategies. She has over a decade of experience in academia and consulting, specializing in environmental impact assessment, waste management, and water quality.

Oscar Salas

Oscar Salas
International Programs Manager at FUNDACION GAIKER

Member of the Expert Committee

Oscar holds a BSc in Chemistry and an MBA from the University of the Basque Country (1987–1992, 2000–2001).  

He is an expert in innovation and R&D management, with extensive experience in project coordination and team leadership. Since 2013, he has served as International Programs Manager. His research focuses on sustainability and waste management. 

He is author of the EU study “Assessment of the Environmental Advantages and Drawbacks of Existing and Emerging Polymers Recovery Processes” (JRC-IPTS). 

Oscar actively contributes to EU initiatives such as the CPA Monitoring Group, the Platform on Sustainable Finance Taxonomy, and the ECP4 Board. He also serves as an evaluator for EU research projects and KIC Raw Materials initiatives.

Patrícia Carvalho

Patrícia Carvalho
Coordinator of the Portuguese Plastics Pact

Member of the Expert Committee

Environmental Engineer with experience in sustainability, circular economy, and recycling. Coordinator of the Portuguese Plastics Pact at Smart Waste Portugal and Specialist Technician at Lipor. Holds a postgraduate diploma in GIS – Agroforestry and Environmental Resources and completed the specialization phase of the Master’s in Organic Agriculture. Passionate about promoting systemic change through collaboration and environmental innovation.

Patrícia Franganito

Patrícia Franganito
Country Manager at Bureau Veritas Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Graduated in Industrial Production Engineering, with a specialization in Energy and Environment, Patrícia holds an MBA in Management and postgraduate degrees in Management by Value and Branding. She recently completed the course “The Director as a Strategic Leader.” 

Currently, she is Country Manager of Bureau Veritas Portugal and a member of the group’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. 

She was previously Sustainability Director for Portugal and Spain, Director of the Certification Body and Training Academy, and Commercial Director of a TIC company. She is also a qualified Lead Auditor for ISO management systems, with professional experience in consulting and marketing.

Paul Hodges

Paul Hodges
Chairman at New Normal Consulting

Member of the Expert Committee

Paul Hodges is a trusted adviser to major companies and the investment community, and has a proven track record of accurately identifying key trends in global marketplaces. He is chairman of New Normal Consulting and a Global Expert with the World Economic Forum. He is a regular speaker at international and industry conferences. Paul also serves as Advisory Board chairman for Infinity Recycling. Executive Chairman of  NiTech Solutions, and as Advisory Board member for the Buildings & Cities journal. Previously, Paul was an Executive Director of a $1bn global business with ICI. 

Paula Sobral

Paula Sobral
Professor at NOVA FCT and researcher at MARE

Member of the Expert Committee

Paula Sobral is a biologist and holds a PhD in Environmental Sciences. She is a Professor at NOVA School of Science and Technology and researcher at MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre. 

She has coordinated or participated in several microplastics research projects in national and international consortia, published impactful papers and is included in the world top 2% scientists list from Stanford/Elsevier. 

As expert she has collaborated in the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, worked as member of UN advisor group GESAMP, participated in OSPAR Commission WG and integrates the pool of experts of UN 2nd and 3rd World Ocean Assessment.

Paulo Gomes

Paulo Gomes
CSO, Senior Consultant and Partner at Green Materials

Member of the Expert Committee

Paulo Gomes is a Senior Consultant and Partner at Green Materials, an advisory company specialized in industrial solutions for the Plastics Recycling Industry.  

He has over 30 years of international leadership experience, with special focus in the Plastic Packaging Industry. Prior to Green Materials, Paulo held several roles in market leaders like Kautex Maschinenbau GmbH (CTO), Markem-Imaje (Strategic Account Management) and Husky Technologies (Global Strategic Marketing Manager and EMEA General Manager).  

Since 2024, he supports plastic recycling solution providers with go-to market strategies based on added-value mapping, promoting the continuous reduction of transformation costs of plastics recycling as a tool to increase market penetration. 

Paulo Gomes holds a Polymer Engineering degree by Universidade do Minho.

Pedro Pablo Díaz

Pedro Pablo Díaz
Former VP of The Coca Cola Company and Former Ambassador of Chile to Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Pedro Pablo Díaz holds a degree in Commercial Engineering from PUC Chile and a diploma in Strategic Marketing from Harvard. 

He is a former Chilean Ambassador to Portugal and Australia, with a distinguished career in diplomacy, business, and academia. 

He served as VP for Latin America at Coca-Cola, led marketing at Embotelladora Andina, held key academic roles, presided over major associations, served on various boards, and authored books.

Pedro Martins

Pedro Martins
Executive Managing Director of Plastipak Europe

Member of the Expert Committee

Pedro Martins leads Plastipak Europe Operations as the Executive Managing Director. He has more than 2 decades of experience working at the packaging industry with specific focus on rigid plastic containers. Pedro Martins joined Plastipak Packaging in 2011 and as had roles of increasing responsibilities including Plastipak Italy General Manager, Sales and Marketing Director Europe and in 2020, he was named Plastipak Europe Executive Managing Director. 

Pedro Martins has a Master in Polymer Engineering and an MBA in Finance.

Plácido Albuquerque
Circular Economy Director at Mercadona Portugal

Member of the Expert Committee

Plácido Albuquerque has been with Mercadona since 2017 and is currently the Director of Circular Economy at Mercadona Portugal, having previously served as Environmental Director. 

He has been working in the environmental field for over a decade, with experience in the energy/construction sector. In his current role in retail, he has focused on waste management and food waste prevention. 

He holds a degree in Environmental Sciences and Technology from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, and a Master’s degree with a specialisation in Environmental Remediation Technologies.

Qinghua MI
Director of Science & Technology and Development Planning at Shandong Agricultural University

Member of the Expert Committee

Professor Qinghua Mi is the Director of both the Office of Science and Technology and the Office of Development Planning at Shandong Agricultural University, as well as Deputy Director of the State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology. He also serves as a professor at the Key Laboratory of Agricultural Film Application under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, a researcher at the Institute for Rural Revitalization, and a member of the Expert Committee of the China Plastics Processing Industry Association.

Since 1992, Professor Mi has been at the forefront of research and development in agricultural plastic products. Over the past decade, he has led multiple major national projects, including National Science and Technology Support Programs, resulting in the development of more than 20 advanced agricultural film products. These include multifunctional covering films, crop-specific greenhouse films, color-modified polyethylene mulch films, pest- and disease-resistant mulch films, and biodegradable films tailored to different crop needs.

A recognized expert by both the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Professor Mi has received 11 scientific and technological awards at or above the provincial and ministerial levels. He is also honored as a leading industry talent in TaiAn, Shandong Province.

Ricardo Pereira

Ricardo Pereira
Chief Executive Officer at Sirplaste, S.A.

Member of the Expert Committee

Ricardo Pereira is CEO of Sirplaste, S.A., the largest plastics recycling company in Portugal, which is part of SCGC that is one of the largest integrated petrochemical companies in Asia and a key industry leader. 

He has a degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from the University of Aveiro. 

Most of his life has been dedicated to waste and plastics recycling, taking part of several working groups.  

In terms of associative movement, Ricardo is the Vice President of APIP – Associação Portuguesa da Indústria de Plásticos (Portuguese Plastic Industry Association) for Recycling area and representative of APIP at Interfileiras – National Association for the Reclamation, Management and Recovery of Packaging Waste.

Rute Viais

Rute Viais
Manager GBS Project Management at ADIDAS

Member of the Expert Committee

With a diverse professional background across functional areas, industries, and geographies, Rute Viais holds degrees in Public Administration (specializations in Planning & Management Control and European Studies) from ISCSP-UTL, and in International Relations (specialization in International Negotiation) from Universidade Lusíada. 

She also earned a Master’s in Political Science from ISCSP – University of Lisbon, with a thesis on networking, interest groups, and lobbying. 

She has participated in the AICEP Global Management Program and is certified as a Chief Wellbeing Officer by the World Happiness Academy. 

Currently, she is part of the Project Management team at Adidas.

 

Sara Balonas

Sara Balonas
Assistant professor at the University of Minho and researcher at Communication and Society Research Centre (CECS)

Member of the Expert Committee

Assistant professor at the University of Minho and researcher at Communication and Society Research Centre (CECS). PhD in Communication Sciences, teaches strategic communication, brands, advertising and creativity. 

Published articles, books and other scientific publications concerning advertising and behavioural change, social change, creativity, strategic communication, political communication, health communication and social marketing. 

Currently vice-president for Communication at the Institute of Social Sciences and coordinator of Createlab – Laboratory for Experimentation and Innovation (CECS). Has been coordinator of the Communication, Organisations and Social Dynamics research group (CECS) and the Advertising Working Group of SOPCOM. 

Founder of Bmais Comunicação, Be Positive) (2002) and of Be True – sustainability and social responsibility (2010).

 

Sara Moreno Pires

Sara Moreno Pires
University of Aveiro Professor and Researcher

Member of the Expert Committee

From Economics to Environmental Sciences and Public Policies, Sara is currently Professor at the University of Aveiro, and co-Founder and President of the ENGO Common Home of Humanity. 

Her academic career has been focusing on public policies and indicators for environmental sustainability, green transition, territorial innovation and local governance. 

She has been collaborating in sustainability projects with public entities, NGOs and private companies for more than 20 years and participating in several national and international research projects, being the author of several international publications.

Sérgio Fonseca
Specialist in management systems to support sustainability and decarbonization

Member of the Expert Committee

Sérgio Fonseca is an engineer and consultant with over 25 years of experience in energy management, sustainable finance, and innovation. He holds a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering (FEUP) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Finance (ISEG). Co-founder and CTO of Onbluenet-Technologies, he has led major energy efficiency and decarbonization projects across Europe. A certified energy auditor and member of the Portuguese Order of Engineers, he sits on the Scientific Committee for Plastics Industry Decarbonization and lectures at NOVA SBE. 

Sílvia Machado

Sílvia Machado
Executive Director for Sustainability | Portuguese Business Confederation (CIP)

Member of the Expert Committee

Graduated in Chemical Engineering, with training in LCA, Quality, Environment and Integrated Management Systems, and SME Management, she began her professional activity in 1996 as a researcher in the petrochemical sector at Repsol Quimica in Spain. 

Returning to Portugal, she collaborated with the National Environment Agency in the implementation of the Industry Environmental Adaptation Contracts, and in 2000 she began her activity as an Environment consultant. For 20 years, she worked with the National Association of Ceramic and Glass Industries, where, in addition to responsibility for environment and energy issues, she was also responsible for the Association participation in several European research projects. 

From 2020 to 2023, she was Senior Advisor at the Confederation of Portuguese Business (CIP) for Environment and Climate Policies, and since then she is the Executive Director of CIP for Sustainability. She represents CIP in Business Europe’s Industrial Affairs Committee and is a member of the Environment WG and the Energy and Climate WG. With extensive experience in regulatory issues, she follows closely European and national politics that impact Portuguese companies, intervening and defending the position of national businesses to enhance the importance of having a regulatory framework that considers companies’ competitiveness together with the protection of the environment. 

Teresa Borba

Teresa Borba
General Manager at APIGRAF

Member of the Expert Committee

A lawyer with a strong belief in associativism and in the essential role that print, packaging, and digital communication play in society and the modern world, firmly anchored in the sustainability of its key substrate, paper, but also plastics and other materials. 

Apigraf represents an industry composed of around 2,000 companies, employing 20,000 workers and generating approximately 3 billion euros in annual turnover.

Victor Neto

Victor Neto
Associate Professor, University of Aveiro

Member of the Expert Committee

Victor Neto is a researcher and teacher developing work on Product Development, Manufacturing Technologies, and Eco-design. His research focus is on plastic-related metastrutures. His main professional activity is at the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Aveiro (Portugal) and at the Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA). 

Victor Neto has a BSc degree in Physics Engineering (2001); MSc in Applied Physics (2004), a PhD in Mechanical Engineering (2008), and a MSc in Management (2012). 

Yağmur Eroğlu

Yağmur Eroğlu
General Manager of CERTILOOP and Board Member of PAGÇEV

Member of the Expert Committee

Yağmur Eroğlu holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and an Executive MBA. 

She served as General Manager of PAGÇEV, Türkiye’s Extended Producer Responsibility organization for packaging waste, from 2012 to 2020. 

In 2021, she founded CERTILOOP, providing internationally accredited certification services in recyclability, recycled content, and plastics recycling processes. 

She also prepares sustainability and GHG reports and advises on LCA, zero-waste, and plastic waste management.

Zhanjie Wang
President of China Plastics Processing Industry Association (CPPIA)

Member of the Expert Committee

Mr. Zhanjie Wang is the President of China Plastics Processing Industry Association (CPPIA), and the Vice President of China National Light Industry Council. He is a Senior Engineer certified under China’s national professional title system and has been working in the plastics industry for 46 years since 1979. 

Mr. Wang also serves as the Chair of the National Technical Committee 48 on Plastic Products of Standardization Administration of China (SAC/TC48), and the Vice Chair of the National Technical Committee 397 on Food Contact Materials and Articles of Standardization Administration of China (SAC/TC397). He is also the Executive Deputy Director of China Plastics, a leading academic journal in the field.

Cidália Teixeira
Coordinator of R&D Projects and QMS at COMPONIT

Speaker of PPS13 | Biofilm

Cidália Teixeira holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and has over 17 years of experience in the masterbatch and compound plastics industry, where she has led different departments. She is currently Quality System Manager and R&D Projects Coordinator at COMPONIT and within the group’s companies. 

Cátia Zoraida

Cátia Zoraida
Project Manager at PIEP - Innovation in Polymer Engineering

Speaker of PPS3 | RECPET

Cátia Zoraida holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto and is currently a Project Manager at PIEP. 

She has managed four multidisciplinary projects focused on innovation and technological development. 

Passionate about creating sustainable solutions, she believes in the power of collaboration to drive real impact in industry and society, contributing actively to building a more innovative and sustainable future.