As part of Italian Design Week, Matteo Cibic presented the ‘Circular Trees’ installation, which addresses the recovery of precious metals from electronic waste. This project fosters collaboration between Italy and South Africa, promoting sustainability while also generating jobs and improving local living conditions.
During the recent Italian Design Week, Italian designer Matteo Cibic unveiled his ‘transmedia installation’ titled ‘Circular Trees’. This project, presented with the support of the Italian Consulate in Cape Town and the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria, focuses on ‘Contemporary Alchemy’, a method of extracting precious metals from electronic waste. Cibic serves as the Ambassador for Italian Design 2025, promoting sustainability through innovative design.
The initiative creates a collaborative framework between Italy and South Africa, highlighting the synergy among companies in both nations dedicated to sustainable practices. This partnership includes Holding LEM Industries Spa, which integrates top Italian firms within the luxury accessories sector, along with its local subsidiary, Cape Refining. Together, they aim to implement circular economy endeavors in South Africa, akin to existing practices in Italy, where precious metals are extracted from electronic waste at the new hydrometallurgical plant in Tuscany.
‘CIRCULAR Trees’ symbolizes the transformative potential of recovering resources, depicted as sculptures crafted from repurposed gold and palladium. These artistic pieces are designed to reflect vitality, with trunks and branches made from electronic chips giving rise to life-enhancing elements. Furthermore, this initiative is expected to provide socio-economic upliftment by generating jobs and improving living standards for communities in South Africa.
The ‘Circular Trees’ project marks a significant collaboration between Italy and South Africa, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovation in the circular economy. It not only fosters international partnerships but also provides artistic value and socio-economic benefits. The initiative demonstrates the vital role of design in addressing environmental issues, while enhancing community welfare and resource recovery.
Original Source: ansabrasil.com.br
