On November 7, CIHEAM, in partnership with the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), UniMed, and BusinessMed, will co-organize the event "Innovating in the Mediterranean: Youth-Driven Green and Blue Transitions!" as part of the Ecomondo exhibition in Rimini, Italy. This major event will bring together experts, researchers, businesses, and international institutions to explore sustainable solutions around the circular economy, energy transition, and natural resource preservation.
A Three-Part Program
1. Panel Discussion on the Future of Food Systems and Green/Blue Transitions in the Mediterranean and Africa
Following opening remarks by M. Teodoro Miano, the Secretary General of the CIHEAM, the panel discussion, "Scenarios and Evolutions of Food Systems and Green/Blue Transition in the Mediterranean and Africa," moderated by Yasmine Seghirate, Administrator at CIHEAM, will gather high-level experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with ecological and food transitions in these regions. Among the panelists are Sandra Castaner (Policy Officer, DG MARE, EU), Sébastien Abis (Director of Club Demeter), Nesrine Ziad (Partner of Leancubator), Angelo Riccaboni (Director of the PRIMA Programme), and Elisabetta Balzi (Head of Unit, Mission and Partnerships Oceans and Waters, EU). This panel will focus on innovative perspectives and concrete strategies for sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems that address the shared needs of the Mediterranean and Africa.
2. Developing the Innovation Ecosystem: Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP)
The event will also feature a presentation of initiatives by the Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP) Network, highlighting the theme "The Future is Young! Changing Mindsets to Tackle Change." Led by Damiano Petruzzella, Annarita Antonelli, and Giordano Dichter (CIHEAM Bari), this session will introduce new MIP network strategies and tools designed to support young innovators, fostering a dynamic of innovation and transformation in the region.
3. Youth Innovation Award Ceremony
A highlight of the 2024 edition, the CIHEAM Youth Innovation Award will recognize the most innovative projects in sustainable development in the Mediterranean. Presented by a jury composed of representatives from UfM, UniMed, BusinessMed, and CIHEAM, this award celebrates concrete solutions and emerging technologies that address today’s environmental challenges and reflects CIHEAM’s commitment to promoting and supporting initiatives that drive positive change in the region.
Discover the 9 selected projects and the candidates who will present them at the awards ceremony.
