The 27th edition of Ecomondo, the international trade fair dedicated to the green and circular economy, officially opened today at the Rimini Exhibition Centre. Running from the 5th to the 8th of November, this year’s event promises to be a landmark gathering in the world of environmental sustainability, organized by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG).
Boasting over 1,600 exhibiting brands, buyers from more than 100 countries, and the participation of 72 international organizations, Ecomondo serves as a major platform for showcasing Italy’s leadership in driving the global sustainability agenda. The exhibition space has been expanded to 166,000 square meters, with two new pavilions added in response to the growing demand. Over 200 meetings, conferences, and workshops are scheduled during the event, all curated by Ecomondo’s Scientific Technical Committee to offer rich discussions on cutting-edge issues and technological innovations related to the ecological transition.
At the official opening ceremony, Maurizio Renzo Ermeti, President of IEG, spoke to the immense growth and success of Ecomondo since its inception in 1997 as Ricicla, emphasizing the fair’s central role in advancing the green and circular economy. He highlighted that Ecomondo has evolved into a major global event, bringing together key stakeholders from diverse sectors, all united by a shared vision of environmental sustainability. Ermeti also noted the importance of the fair as a focal point for international collaboration on green issues.
Fabio Fava, President of Ecomondo’s Scientific Technical Committee, provided insight into the significance of this year’s program. He emphasized that the event is now a central hub for international dialogue on pressing environmental issues and the technological solutions required to meet the ecological transition challenges both in Europe and globally. With the support of leading institutions such as the European Commission, FAO, the European Environment Agency, and the OECD, the committee continues to guide enterprises across the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors. Ecomondo, he explained, has evolved into a “laboratory of knowledge and innovation,” where businesses, researchers, and policymakers can exchange ideas and explore new pathways toward sustainability.
Fabrizio Lobasso, Deputy Director General for the Promotion of the Country System and Principal Director for Economic Internationalization at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, underscored the global reach of Ecomondo. He noted that the event perfectly aligns with Italy’s reputation for fostering innovation and driving ecological and digital transitions. Italian companies, he explained, are at the forefront of these transitions, offering high-quality solutions and resources to international markets, while Ecomondo provides a vital platform for fostering connections, dialogue, and collaboration on sustainability issues.
The Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, concluded the ceremony by reaffirming the importance of Ecomondo as a key event for Italy’s green economy. He stressed that Italy is at the cutting edge of the ecological transition, particularly with regard to decarbonization, resource efficiency, and the promotion of sustainable production models. Highlighting the upcoming discussions at COP29, Pichetto Fratin emphasized that Italy’s green economy, exemplified by successful initiatives such as its recycling programs, will continue to play a pivotal role in achieving global climate goals. He also stressed the importance of advancing green technologies and practices at both the national and international levels.
Present at the opening ceremony were key dignitaries, including Anna Montini, Councillor for Ecological Transition of Rimini Municipality; Irene Priolo, Acting President of the Emilia-Romagna Region; Corrado Peraboni, CEO of IEG; Alessandra Astolfi, Global Exhibition Director, Green & Technology Division of IEG; and Mauro Delle Fratte, Exhibition Manager of Ecomondo.
A key feature of this year’s Ecomondo is the 13th edition of the States General of the Green Economy, organized by the National Council for the Green Economy and the Sustainable Development Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of the Environment and the European Commission. One of the major highlights of the event is the 2024 Report on the State of the Green Economy, which was presented this morning. The report offers a detailed analysis of both Italian and international progress in critical areas such as decarbonization, circular economy, and energy efficiency.
Notably, Italy has made impressive strides in these areas, including a 6% reduction in CO₂ emissions, the largest decrease in decades, and its continued leadership in the circular economy, where it generates €3.6 of GDP for every kilogram of resources consumed. The country has also seen a growth in organic farming, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. However, challenges remain, particularly in areas like soil management and sustainable mobility, which will be key topics of discussion and innovation throughout the event.
Ecomondo 2024 stands as a testament to Italy’s commitment to sustainability, providing a powerful platform for dialogue, innovation, and international collaboration in pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future for all.
