On March 14 we celebrate the third anniversary of our institution, a milestone that testifies to the value of collaboration and networking among institutions, businesses, the research world and the community. These three years have represented a path of growth and constant commitment, with initiatives and projects to build a sustainable development model for Venice and its territory.
Thanks to the commitment of those who believed in our vision, those who provided energy and ideas, and those who continue to work with dedication, we have expanded our membership network and developed initiatives for the city’s future.
The year 2024, in particular, marked a year of consolidation, prestigious collaborations and growth of the membership network, with 47 entities involved, more than 50 initiatives developed and more than 30 institutional and networking events promoted. Among the most notable achievements were the completion of the Malcontenta Basin Park, with the planting of 14,000 trees, and the inauguration of the Water and Restoration Academic Poles as part of the Venice City Campus project.
The year also saw the debut of the Venice Hydrogen Forum, a landmark event on the decarbonized hydrogen economy in the Mediterranean, and the organization of public initiatives such as the exhibition “Waterproof Venice. A Tale in Images,” which offered a vision of the city’s sustainable future.
Innovation continued to be a key pillar, with the “From the Lagoon to the Moon” study analyzing space economy opportunities in the Veneto region, and with the launch of the urban mining project, aimed at recovering critical materials from urban waste, in line with circular economy principles.
The year 2024 also marked the launch of the Social Inclusion Area, with involvement in civic crowdfunding programs and educational projects for new generations.
Internationally, VSF consolidated Venice’s position as the Resilience Hub of the UN program “Making Cities Resilient 2030,” with initiatives for climate risk management and urban heritage protection. The UNESCO delegation’s visit provided an opportunity for discussion on sustainable city protection and management, issues that were also presented at COP29 in Baku, contributing to the global debate on urban resilience.
All these achievements are the result of continuous work and the conviction that sustainability and innovation are the cornerstones for the future of Venice. VSF will continue to work with determination to respond to global challenges and promote a sustainable future for the city and its territory.
