High-Level Tunisian Technical Mission Launched at UNDP Headquarters in Rome
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) headquarters in Rome hosted the launch of a high-level Tunisian technical mission on February 10. This initiative aims to consolidate the strategic partnership with Italy in the areas of sustainable waste management and energy valorization solutions, also known as Waste-to-Energy. Facilitated by the UNDP, this mission supports Tunisia's national efforts to accelerate its energy transition and structure a high-performing circular economy, as several large-scale pilot projects are being launched.
Djerba's Experience as a Deployment Driver
During the opening session, the Tunisian delegation presented its strategic priorities, highlighting the organic waste valorization project on the island of Djerba. This model, considered a pillar of the "Tunisia Green" strategy, served as the basis for discussions on the possibilities of duplication in other regions of the country. To support this ambition, participants are relying on the UNDP's "PESTA" platform, whose mission is to optimize the bankability of environmental projects in order to mobilize more international investments towards the Tunisian market.
Regulatory and Technological Synergy
The exchanges continued with officials from the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, represented by Alessandro Guiri, Director General of European and International Affairs. The discussions allowed for the exploration of Italian expertise in legislative frameworks, particularly for structuring biomethane production. The goal is to align common actions with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while studying the technological transfer mechanisms necessary for modernizing Tunisian power plants through the integration of cutting-edge solutions.
Private Sector and Financial Institutions' Involvement
Finally, a dialogue session involving the private sector and financial institutions such as the Italian Deposit Fund highlighted the crucial role of private investment. The Tunisian side detailed its structural reforms on energy tariffs and incentives offered to industries in the waste sector. In response, several major Italian companies expressed their willingness to contribute to the resilience of the Tunisian energy system. This meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from Tunisia, Italy, and the UNDP to transform environmental challenges into economic opportunities that create value.
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