Matteo Cibic launched ‘Circular Trees’ at Italian Design Week to promote recovery of precious metals from e-waste. The project fosters collaboration between Italian and South African firms in sustainability innovation, similar to ongoing initiatives in Italy.
During Italian Design Week, Matteo Cibic, the Ambassador for Italian Design 2025, unveiled a transmedia installation entitled “Circular Trees” in South Africa. This project, presented in partnership with the Italian Consulate in Cape Town and the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria, focuses on “Contemporary Alchemy,” which involves recovering valuable metals from electronic waste.
This initiative aims to strengthen collaborations between Italian and South African enterprises that focus on sustainability and innovation. Teaming up with Holding LEM Industries Spa, a coalition of leading Italian firms in luxury fashion processing, and its subsidiary Cape Refining in South Africa, a dialogue on launching local circular economy projects is underway. This approach mirrors the operations in Italy, specifically the new hydrometallurgical plant at Valdarno Ambiente (Iren Group) in Tuscany, designed for recovering precious metals and critical materials from electronic waste.
The “Circular Trees” installation highlights the innovative potential of this metal recovery process. The sculptures are creatively crafted from recovered gold and palladium, with forms resembling trees made from electronic chips, showcasing life-giving elements sprouting from them. Furthermore, this project is expected to contribute positively to local communities in South Africa by generating new employment opportunities and enhancing living standards in these areas.
The collaboration between Italy and South Africa through the ‘Circular Trees’ project exemplifies the effective merging of innovation and sustainability. With a focus on recovering precious metals from electronic waste, this initiative not only showcases artistic ingenuity but is also aimed at creating economic opportunities and improving quality of life in South African communities.
Original Source: ansabrasil.com.br
