Ecomondo 2024 : Africa at the heart of the Mattei plan for a Sustainable Future

In a month, Ecomondo 2024 will open its doors in Rimini, Italy, under the auspices of the IEG (Italian Exhibition Group). This must-attend European event for the circular and green economy is shaping up with a strong international focus. “The new edition has an increasingly international perspective: 900 buyers and delegations from 120 countries are expected, particularly from the Balkans, Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America,” says Corrado Peraboni, CEO of Italian Exhibition Group Spa (IEG).

The 2024 edition, which will be the 27th of its kind, will place a special emphasis on Africa and global environmental challenges. “It is a leading event that today highlights Africa and environmental issues through a rich program of events,” explains Maurizio Ermeti, Chairman of the IEG Board of Directors.

The Mattei Plan and the Africa Green Growth Forum at the Center of Discussions

The Africa Green Growth Forum, scheduled for November 7, will be one of the highlights of the event. Organized in collaboration with Italy’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security and the Mission Structure for the implementation of the Mattei Plan, this forum will spotlight Africa’s crucial role in the global green transition. “This forum is a unique opportunity to discuss the Mattei Plan’s support for the creation of a center of excellence in Morocco dedicated to training experts in renewable energy for the entire continent,” emphasizes Alessandra Astolfi, Head of IEG’s Green & Technology Division.

The Mattei Plan also supports the development of the biofuel sector in Africa, particularly through the recovery of waste such as used cooking oils. This project is backed by a joint funding of $210 million, provided by the Italian Climate Fund and the International Finance Corporation (World Bank Group), to support more than 200,000 small agricultural businesses on the continent.

Managing and Impact of Textile Waste Exports, a Growing Issue for Africa

Beyond the Africa Green Growth Forum, several conferences will highlight other major environmental challenges. Among them, “The Rise of the Mediterranean Sea Level: The Forgotten Threat” will address climate change issues in this vulnerable region, while the conference “Accelerating Blue Interregional Cooperation in the Mediterranean Basin” will focus on collaboration between Mediterranean countries to strengthen resilience against climate risks.

Finally, on the last day of the event, the conference “Exporting Urban and Used Textile Waste” will examine the management and impact of textile waste exports, a growing concern for global economies, particularly in Africa.

Information and program: Ecomondo 2024