Italian Design Week Introduces ‘Circular Trees’ Project in South Africa

Italian designer Matteo Cibic launched ‘Circular Trees’ at Italian Design Week, focusing on recovering precious metals from electronic waste. This project fosters collaboration between Italy and South Africa, aiming to enhance sustainability initiatives and socio-economic conditions in local communities.

As part of the Italian Design Week, Matteo Cibic, an esteemed Italian designer and Ambassador for Italian Design 2025, introduced his work titled “Circular Trees” in collaboration with the Italian Consulate in Cape Town and the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria. This transmedia installation emphasizes ‘Contemporary Alchemy’, focusing on technological innovations that recover precious metals from electronic waste.

This initiative symbolizes the partnership between Italy and South Africa through cooperative efforts aimed at sustainability and innovation. In collaboration with Holding LEM Industries Spa, which incorporates multiple prominent Italian companies within the high-fashion and luxury accessories sectors, dialogue has been established to initiate local circular economy projects mirroring those occurring in Italy. These projects aim to recover precious metals and other essential materials from electronic waste, similar to the newly inaugurated hydrometallurgical facility by Valdarno Ambiente in Tuscany.

The “Circular Trees” installation embodies the transformative potential of this innovative recovery process. It features sculptures made from recovered gold and palladium, presented as trees crafted from electronic chips, which then flourish with regenerative elements. Additionally, this project aspires to provide socio-economic advantages to South African communities by generating new employment opportunities and enhancing living conditions in the respective regions.

The ‘Circular Trees’ project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between Italy and South Africa in promoting sustainable practices and technological innovation. Through the recovery of precious metals from electronic waste, it not only showcases artistic innovation but also aims to improve local economic conditions and create new job prospects, reinforcing the importance of circular economy initiatives.

Original Source: ansabrasil.com.br