Green and digital transitions are transforming economies, industries, and societies. However, the ability to participate in this transformation is not equally distributed across regions. Some regions are already equipped with strong technological capabilities, while others face challenges in developing and adopting emerging technologies.

A recent discussion on “Technological Capabilities for the Twin Transition: Linking European Regions for Cohesion” highlighted an important message: Europe’s future success in the green and digital era will depend on how effectively regions identify their strengths, develop suitable technologies, cooperate with each other, and invest in skills.

The discussion, based on a detailed study mapping technological capabilities across European regions, showed that the twin transition is not simply a national challenge. It is mainly a regional challenge that requires targeted strategies and stronger connections between regions.

The Twin Transition Requires Regional Understanding

The study revealed significant differences in technological capabilities among European regions. Regions have different levels of readiness depending on the technology being considered.

For example, some regions have strong capabilities in artificial intelligence, while others have greater potential in technologies related to carbon capture and green innovation. This means that technological leadership cannot be understood through a single ranking of countries or regions.

The important question is not whether one region is leading the entire transition, but rather:

Which regions have the capabilities to develop specific technologies, and how can those capabilities be strengthened?

The discussion emphasized that Europe needs to support the right technologies in the right places instead of applying the same approach everywhere.

Avoiding Greater Regional Inequality

One of the major concerns discussed was the possibility that the technological transition could increase inequality between regions.

Regions that already have strong technological foundations are better positioned to develop new technologies and receive greater economic benefits. Advanced regions often have stronger opportunities in high-return technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, 5G, and other digital innovations.

At the same time, less developed regions may struggle to compete unless they receive support to identify realistic technological priorities based on their existing strengths.

The solution is not simply to make every region develop the same technologies. Instead, regions need strategies that match their capabilities, resources, and future potential.

Cooperation: The Missing Link in Europe’s Innovation System

Another important finding from the discussion was that European regions remain highly fragmented in their cooperation patterns.

Many regions continue to collaborate mainly within their own national borders. However, advanced technologies require broader networks, shared knowledge, and cooperation between regions with complementary strengths.

A region that lacks certain capabilities does not necessarily need to develop everything independently. It can collaborate with other regions that possess the required knowledge, skills, or technological expertise.

The discussion highlighted that stronger connections between regions could help Europe improve innovation, increase competitiveness, and make better use of existing technological potential.

Empowering Regions Through Better Policies

The speakers argued that regional transformation requires policies designed around real regional conditions.

Traditional approaches often classify regions mainly according to economic development levels. However, two regions with similar income levels may have completely different technological opportunities.

A region may be economically less developed but still possess valuable capabilities in specific technologies. Therefore, policymakers need more detailed understanding of regional strengths before deciding where to invest.

The study provides a foundation for identifying these opportunities and helping regions develop strategies based on their technological profiles.

Skills: Preparing People for the Future Economy

Technology development cannot succeed without people who have the necessary skills.

The discussion highlighted a growing gap between the speed of technological change and the pace at which education systems adapt. Universities and training systems need to respond more quickly to changing technological demands.

The speakers emphasized stronger cooperation between:

• Universities and research institutions
• Businesses and industries
• Regional authorities
• Education and training providers

This cooperation can help ensure that people develop skills relevant to emerging technologies.

The goal is not only to create highly specialized experts but also to build a workforce capable of participating in different levels of technological development.

Green Transition as an Opportunity for Growth

The discussion also challenged the idea that new technologies mainly eliminate jobs.

The speakers highlighted that green technologies can create significant employment opportunities. The transition toward sustainable economies requires new skills, new industries, and new forms of work.

By investing in education, innovation, and regional capabilities, Europe can transform technological change into an opportunity for economic development.

Supporting Innovation Through SMEs and Startups

Small and medium enterprises were identified as important contributors to innovation.

These businesses often generate new ideas and technological solutions, but they require support to grow and scale their activities.

The discussion emphasized the importance of creating conditions where innovative companies can expand within Europe rather than moving elsewhere.

Support from regional, national, and European institutions can help SMEs become stronger contributors to the green and digital transition.

The Need for a New Approach

The overall message from the discussion was that Europe needs a more connected and region-focused approach to technological transformation.

The future of the twin transition depends on several interconnected factors:

• Understanding regional technological strengths
• Supporting appropriate technology priorities
• Improving cooperation between regions
• Developing skills for future industries
• Supporting innovative companies
• Creating policies that enable scaling and collaboration

A successful transition will not come from isolated efforts. It will require cooperation between regions, institutions, businesses, researchers, and communities.

Conclusion

The green and digital transition represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is that regions are starting from different positions, with unequal technological capabilities. The opportunity is that every region has the potential to contribute if its strengths are properly identified and supported.

The future of Europe’s technological development will depend not only on creating new technologies but also on connecting people, regions, knowledge, and opportunities.

A stronger and more inclusive transition requires moving from competition between regions toward cooperation among regions. By understanding local capabilities and building stronger connections, Europe can create a future where technological progress benefits a wider range of communities.