On November 7, 2024, CIHEAM brought together experts, innovators, and policymakers at the Ecomondo exposition, one of the world’s leading international trade shows focused on the green and circular economy. The event, titled “Innovating the Mediterranean: Youth-Driven Green and Blue Transitions,” highlighted the critical role of research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration in tackling the challenges of sustainable food systems and ecological transitions across the Mediterranean and Africa.

Co-organized by CIHEAM, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), UniMed, and BusinessMed, the event underscored the importance of building robust innovation ecosystems to empower youth and deliver sustainable solutions. It also reinforced the Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP) as a key initiative to connect academia, industry, civil society, and governments in addressing shared challenges.

Panel Highlights

Moderated by Yasmine Seghirate, administrator at the CIHEAM, the panel discussion explored practical solutions to urgent issues such as water scarcity, marine ecosystem protection, and food security. Renowned panelists included:

• Elisabetta Balzi (European Commission, DG Research and Innovation), who emphasized the importance of integrated water management and ocean partnerships.
• Angelo Riccaboni (PRIMA Foundation), advocating for research diplomacy to strengthen links between Mediterranean and African food systems.
• Sandra Castaner (DG MARE), highlighting initiatives to engage youth in sustainable ocean management.
• Nesrine Ziad (Leancubator), showcasing the role of Mediterranean start-ups in driving green and blue economy transitions.
• Sébastien Abis (Club Demeter), addressing strategies to enhance the resilience of Mediterranean food systems amidst current crises.

Developing the Innovation Ecosystem: Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP)

The event also featured a presentation on the initiatives of the Mediterranean Innovation Partnership (MIP) Network, focusing on the theme “The Future is Young! Changing Mindsets to Embrace Change.” Led by Damiano Petruzzella, Annarita Antonelli, and Giordano Dichter (CIHEAM Bari), this session introduced new strategies and tools designed to support young innovators. These initiatives aim to foster a dynamic environment for innovation and transformation in the Mediterranean region.

A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future

CIHEAM Secretary-General Teodoro Miano concluded the event by reaffirming CIHEAM’s commitment to fostering collaboration and supporting youth-led initiatives aligned with the quintuple helix model. The discussions and projects presented at Ecomondo 2024 embody CIHEAM’s vision of a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive Mediterranean region.