During the WCEF 2024 event in Brussels, SITES, represented by Managing Director Leonardo Piccinetti, engaged in discussions highlighting potential new collaborations with Nigeria, while also reinforcing historical cooperation with Turkey in circular economy initiatives.
At this pivotal event, we were privileged to engage with delegates from the Federal Ministry of Environment of Nigeria. They displayed keen interest in our projects, especially those centered on fostering sustainability through collaborative efforts between Europe and Africa. Presentations by SITES showcased our past and ongoing endeavors, with emphasis on areas such as water and waste management, smart agriculture, and the blue economy. Furthermore, Leonardo Piccinetti underscored the importance of academic exchange within a PhD university network, aligning with Nigeria’s commitment to advancing a skills agenda and fostering productive dialogue.
Simultaneously, the encounter with representatives from Türkiye, including the Istanbul Chamber of Industry and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, was instrumental in strengthening bonds. The dialogue underscored numerous collaboration opportunities, focusing on knowledge exchange, capacity building for SMEs, and enabling life cycle assessments in Türkiye’s key industries such as textile, automotive, and cosmetics. Emphasis was placed on sustainable management practices within SMEs, bridging industry-policy gaps, and leveraging academic partnerships with esteemed institutions like TUBITAK. This collaboration builds upon a longstanding and productive relationship with TUBITAK, laying the groundwork for impactful and sustainable initiatives in Türkiye.
These engagements have not only deepened SITES’ understanding of the unique challenges and aspirations of Nigeria and Türkiye but have also set the stage for robust collaboration and exchange in the future. As we move forward, SITES is eager to explore further opportunities to work hand in hand with both nations to drive meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.
