On 7 November 2024, the 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. Entitled “Innovating the Mediterranean: Youth-Driven Green and Blue Transitions,” the event highlighted the critical role of research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration in addressing the challenges of sustainable food systems and ecological transitions across the Mediterranean and Africa.

Co-organized by the CIHEAM, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), UniMed, and BusinessMed, the event highlighted 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 of 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

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