On 10 July, the Olivettian Hub was inaugurated in Roccavaldina: a place where the economy, innovation and culture come together to envision a fairer and greener future. At its heart is Fabbrica Zero, developed as part of  LIFE RESTART project, which produces ecobuddy bioplastics using spent grain supplied by Birrificio Messina, as well as by-products from the local agri-food supply chain, including olive pomace, citrus waste and coffee silverskin. This work was carried out as part of the LIFE RESTART project, co-funded by the EU under the LIFE Programme.

Fabbrica Zero is a highly innovative facility and one of the first of its kind in the sector. It is managed by the EcosMed Social Cooperative, which also renovated the old industrial buildings. While remaining focused on its own financial sustainability and turnover, the company operates according to a model in which the purpose of business is not simply to maximise profit, but to ensure that the value generated benefits the entire local area by investing in the fair and sustainable development of the village and its community.

The production process has created new jobs, some of which are reserved for people experiencing social vulnerability. Part of the profits will also be invested in initiatives aimed at tackling educational poverty and supporting the further development of the local area.

In addition to the industrial-scale production of bioplastics, the Hub includes an advanced research centre on climate change and an energy community powered by photovoltaic panels. As well as meeting the Hub’s own energy needs, the system provides energy to the wider community.

The site also hosts several businesses from outside the village, including a pasta factory, Terra di Sicilia, producing pasta from ancient local grain varieties and one of the studios of Nugae, the company founded by renowned designer Francesco Belvisi, which uses 3D printing to manufacture boat components.

The project also supports the development of start-ups and local businesses in order to curb depopulation and reduce unemployment. Alongside these activities, an urban regeneration programme has been carried out in the historic centre of Roccavaldina.