Dear Sir/Madam! We are delighted to invite you to submit paper proposals for the 17th Slovenian Social Science Conference titled “Is digital transformation a social transformation? Coping with re-emerging social challenges for humanity.” Location: Novo mesto Dates: October 17th and 18th, 2024 Keynote speaker: Jo Ann R. Regan, Catholic University of America Conference fee: Free of charge Deadlines: Conference Abstract submission: via https://conference.fuds.si/ by August 31st, 2024 Notification of acceptance: via email by September 5th, 2024 Programme of the conference: September 20th, 2024 Full paper submission: (not mandatory to ensure conference participation): November 25th, 2024, via ConfTool

Explore recent sustainability updates, trends, business spotlights, and insights in this edition, showcasing advancements and innovative solutions for people and the planet. Top Story: Air Pollution: The Leading Global Health Threat The 2024 World Heart Report identifies air pollution as the most significant environmental health risk, linked to rising deaths from cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Despite WHO recommendations, air quality improvements have been minimal, leading to nearly 2 million annual deaths from heart disease and strokes. Business Spotlight: Microsoft Advances Carbon Removal with Major Tree-Planting Initiative in Panama Microsoft has committed to a significant nature-based carbon removal initiative by purchasing 1.6 million credits from a reforestation project in Panama. This project, spanning 10,000 hectares, involves planting over 6 million trees on land previously degraded by cattle ranching, aiming to remove 3.2 million tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere. USAID, Unilever, and EY Unite to Tackle Plastic Pollution with CIRCLE Alliance USAID, Unilever, and EY have launched the CIRCLE Alliance, a $21 million initiative aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses to reduce plastic use and enhance circular economies, especially in Asia. General Motors Enhances Supply Chain Sustainability General Motors is intensifying its sustainability initiatives within its supply chain, focusing on logistics, packaging, and supplier engagement to achieve ambitious emissions reductions and maintain ethical standards. The Guardian to Introduce Sustainable Product Review Vertical This Summer The Guardian is set to launch a new product recommendation section focused on sustainability. Scheduled to debut on its UK website this summer, this initiative aims to guide consumers toward eco-friendly products and extend the lifespan of their purchases. UEFA Targets Sustainability for Euro 2024 UEFA is setting sustainability goals for Euro 2024, focusing on using existing stadiums, employing renewable energy, and reducing travel by clustering games. The organization has allocated 32 million euros to support these initiatives, which include sustainable sponsorships and public transport incentives for fans. Hard Rock Stadium Secures Sustainability Certifications Hard Rock Stadium has received LEED Gold certification and the highest FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation. These recognitions highlight the stadium’s sustainability achievements, including eliminating almost all single-use plastics and converting kitchen waste into biofuel. Trends & Insights: KPMG Report Highlights ESG Assurance Readiness Gap Among Companies A KPMG survey reveals that less than 30% of large companies are adequately prepared for upcoming ESG assurance requirements. Despite anticipations of needing to meet new sustainability reporting standards within the next two years, many companies lag in readiness, showing only a slight improvement in preparedness from the previous year. Navigating the 'Dilemma Decade': The SBTi Battle and Its Broader Implications Aron Cramer highlights the significant tension within the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) over the role of carbon offsets and market-based solutions. This debate reflects a broader conflict between current business practices and the urgent changes demanded by climate science. GRI Updates Labor Standards to Boost Workplace Transparency The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is revising its labor standards to enhance transparency in employment practices. Open for public comment, these updates target employment relationships, pay, and workplace changes. Restoring Trust in Voluntary Carbon Markets The Biden administration introduces guidelines to boost transparency and regulation in voluntary carbon markets, addressing criticisms of low trust and greenwashing. Enhanced technology and stringent verification are set to ensure carbon credits genuinely contribute to global climate goals, supporting cleaner business transitions and forest conservation in the Global South. Rethinking Sustainability Communication for Greater Impact Oliver Pattenden suggests a more impactful way to discuss sustainability by focusing on universal themes like care, belonging, and relationships rather than technical jargon. Emphasizing human-centered values resonates more effectively with broader audiences, avoiding the disengagement often caused by the traditional environmental focus. Rising Climate Risks at Outdoor Concerts Demand Stronger Safety Measures As climate change exacerbates extreme weather conditions, safety concerns at outdoor concerts are growing. Recent incidents, including a fatal heat exhaustion case at a Taylor Swift concert in Rio, underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols. Achieving Net Zero by 2050 Could Cost 19% More Than Planned A BloombergNEF report has revealed that reaching net zero emissions by 2050 is still feasible but will require an additional $34 trillion investment, representing a 19% increase over current projections. This extra funding is essential for enhancing electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy, power grids, and carbon capture technologies. Campaigns and Initiatives Roundup: IKEA's Campaign Sheds Light on Domestic Violence and Homelessness IKEA, in collaboration with Save the Children, has launched the 'This is not a home' campaign at its Tempe store in Sydney, drawing attention to the over 120,000 Australians, mostly women and children, who are homeless due to domestic violence. British Heart Foundation Unveils Murals to Spotlight Heart Disease in Young People The British Heart Foundation has launched a campaign featuring murals that memorialize young football fans who have died from heart disease. The series, titled 'Til I Died,' consists of 12 murals representing the 12 young lives lost each week to sudden cardiac death in the UK.

From 20th to 24th May, a Summer School was held at FUDŠ via Zoom with the participation of academics, Jean Monnet colleagues, students, experts and civil society as The 5th traditional summer school promoted cooperation with current/future work of researchers within the framework of various European topics and, through discussions. The holder of the project S4.0forEU have been there as a participant in the Summer School.

Akademski kolokvij za doktorske študente, FUDŠ, Ljubljana - ko študentke in študenti predstavljajo razvoj svojega raziskovalnega dela z aktivno razpravo - neusahljiv vir navdiha in motivacije. A unique opportunity is when students present the development of their research work with an active discussion. Every time, it is an excellent source of inspiration 2 think and motivation 4 work...

As many of your students gear up to cast their first votes, we're thrilled to present you with an invaluable resource: the Election Toolkit. 🎉 This toolkit is tailor-made to arm them with confidence and knowledge as they head to the polls this June. Inside this comprehensive toolkit, you'll find a range of engaging activities, both in the classroom and beyond, all centred around the European Elections. These activities are crafted to equip your students with a deep understanding of the European Parliament's pivotal role, the significance of exercising their vote, and their indispensable involvement in the democratic process. 🔍 What's Inside the Toolkit: Introduction to the Topic: Dive into the essentials of European elections. Guiding Questions: Spark meaningful conversations with your students. Educational Resources: Access a wealth of materials to enhance learning. Quiz: Test knowledge and solidify understanding. 🇪🇺 Europe Day Celebration: Join us on 27 April in Strasbourg and 4 May in Brussels as we celebrate Europe Day! Explore the inner workings of the European Union, understand how EU legislation impacts daily life, and discover how each vote shapes our collective future. 📜 Vote: a European Story Exhibition: Delve into the history of European democracy through an immersive exhibition at the Parlamentarium. Witness how ten pivotal elections have shaped our world. This exhibition runs until June 2024. 🔍 Election Experience Path: Embark on a journey through the Info Hub's 'Election Experience Path'. Discover EU policy priorities, explore the decision-making process, and even step into the shoes of an MEP through virtual reality. Email: info-hub@europarl.europa.eu. 🌟 Youth Hub: For a treasure trove of educational resources, visit the Youth Hub website. It's your go-to destination for interactive activities, training, and learning materials to bring the EU closer to your students. 📅 Remind Me to Vote: Ensure no vote is missed! Students can sign up for reminders closer to polling day. 🤝 Join Together.eu: It's time to act! Join us in fostering unity and engagement across Europe. Sign here. Warm regards from The European Parliament Visitors Team

Every year on Europe Day, we commemorate the signing of the Schuman Declaration on May 9, 1950, which laid the foundations for today's European Union, and its purpose was to ensure lasting peace in post-war Europe. This year's Europe Day coincides with preparations for the European elections. On this occasion, we remember how important your voice and your contribution are in shaping the future of Europe. Have you ever wanted to see Europe in one day? Join us here: Saturday, April 27, 2024 European Parlament 1 Allée du Printemps F-67070 Strasbourg from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (entry no later than 5:30 p.m.) Get to know the heart of European democracy through interesting activities for all ages: information stands, plenary talks, outdoor animations, virtual reality, themed sessions and special guided tours. The main topic of this year's Europe Day is, of course, the European elections - among other things, how to vote, why voting is important and how you can contribute to the protection of democracy will be presented in detail. Take part in activities and talks and meet European political groups. See the program in Strasbourg HERE. If you are no longer in Strasbourg, you can discover Europe Day events all over Europe here. Celebrate European Democracy Day with us, and use your vote between June 6 and 9! European Parliament Visitor Team Remind me to vote!

After a brief hiatus, we are resuming our monthly meetings in April, tailored for researchers of all levels – from beginners to doctoral students and seasoned researchers alike. This time, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Borut Rončević, will present his current research on "Sociologies in Post-Socialist Transformations in Central and Eastern Europe: Towards Conceptual and Analytical Framework." Take advantage of this opportunity for professional growth and idea exchange! Save the Date: April 10, 2024, at 3:00 PM, and join us via Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/3377055318#success All those interested in the field of research are welcome!

Looking for a fascinating and enriching experience this April? Look no further than the House of European History in Brussels! They have an incredible lineup of events and activities suitable for groups, families, and individuals. Here's what's happening: 1️⃣ Delve into Democracy with Two New Tours 📅 Every day during opening hours 📍 Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels 📝 Explore the significance of democracy in Europe's history through guided tours in multiple languages. Dive deep into the evolution of democratic ideals and be part of shaping its future! 2️⃣ Family Event: Under One Roof 📅 Sunday, April 21 🕙 10:00 - 18:00 📍 Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels 🎨 Join us for a day of intergenerational exploration into European history! Families and groups of all ages are invited to engage in fun activities and trails that bridge the gap between generations. 3️⃣ Bellum et Artes Exhibition Opening 📅 Saturday, April 27 🕕 18:00 - 21:00 📍 Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels 🖼 Immerse yourself in art and war during the Thirty Years' War. Be among the first to witness our new exhibition, featuring expert insights, captivating performances, and delightful refreshments. 4️⃣ Guided Thematic Tour During Your Tuesday Lunchtime 📅 Tuesdays in April 🕧 12:15 - 13:00 📍 Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels 📚 Engage in critical thinking with our themed tours focusing on media literacy. Challenge assumptions, question facts, and expand your understanding of the world around you—all during your lunch break! Join the House of European History this April for an unforgettable journey through Europe's past and present. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious individual, or a family looking for a day of learning and fun, there's something here for you! Don't miss out—book your spot now and make memories that will last a lifetime. #HouseofEuropeanHistory #BrusselsEvents #AprilActivities #Democracy #FamilyFun #ArtExhibition #MediaLiteracy

Our Winter Camp 2024, on 14.3. commenced with a series of insightful sessions held via the online platform Zoom. And one of those was dedicated to the Jean Monnet Module Sustainable Industry 4.0 for EU: Advancing technology waves within Sustainable Industry 4.0 in EU / Tehnološki napredek znotraj trajnostne industrije 4.0 v EU This session explored technological advancements within the framework of Sustainable Industry 4.0 in the EU. Doc. Dr. Uršič adeptly steered the conversation, inviting esteemed speakers to offer their perspectives. The speakers were Prof. Dr. Vassil Kirov from the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, and Filip Škoda from Uprise, Croatia. The session received financial support from the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, further emphasising its relevance and importance. Both sessions underscored the conference's commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange within the academic community. Participants left with enriched insights and a deeper understanding of the European Union's pressing issues regarding sustainable industry. The FIŠ FUDŠ Winter Camp 2024 is poised to continue its impactful discussions, promising further engagement and enlightenment for all involved.

Dear all, This year, the annual event organised by FUDŠ and FIŠ will be in March - from 14. - 15. online and in a hybrid way. In a dynamic exploration of technological advancements within Sustainable Industry 4.0, the Winter Camp session under the project "Jean Monnet Module: Sustainable Industry 4.0 for EU" will be held from 10:15 to 12:15 and moderated by doc. dr. Erika Džajić Uršič, offering valuable insights into the progression of technology waves within the European Union. Distinguished speakers and invited discussants will play a pivotal role in enriching the discourse. The Winter Camp session fostered knowledge exchange and provided a platform for participants to delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving landscape of Sustainable Industry 4.0 in the European Union. The collaborative efforts of the Erasmus+ programme and the distinguished speakers will contribute to the success of this insightful winter camp session. AGENDA

Excited to share a significant milestone!  We are proud to announce the publication of our journal article, "The Circular Economy: Recent Debates and Research Trends," co-authored with Prof. Borut Rončević, Dr. Urška Fric and Dr. Erika D. Uršič.  This work is now featured in the Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and Development. https://doi.org/10.24294/jipd.v8i3.2855 #circulareconomy #research  #sustainability #si40foreu

👉 Get to know the profession of a psychosocial counselor, learn relaxation techniques and listen to inspiring stories of people who have encountered various problems in their lives and successfully overcame them. 📣 This time's guest will be Emil Karajić, lecturer and Head of the School of Psychosocial Assistance and Counseling at FUDŠ, who will lead the lecture: "Mindfulness: What is it, how do we deal with it and why is it important?" 📣 This will be followed by a lecture on the topic of relaxation techniques and meditation, prepared by the students of the 3rd year of the Psychosocial Assistance program.🧘‍♀️🌈 You can submit your application at 👉 https://www.fuds.si/.../psihodnevi-2024-zimska-sola.../ Hurry, as registrations are limited! See you! #FUDS #mindfulness #wellbeing #relaxation