Phygital Sustainability Expo 2026: European States General on Sustainability Shapes Policy and Culture in Rome
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Global Leaders Meet in Rome to Advance Sustainable Culture and Policy
On 4 and 5 June 2025, the archaeological site of Trajan's Markets in Rome hosted the European States General on the Culture of Sustainability. The event formed part of the seventh edition of the Phygital Sustainability Expo®. It brought together political leaders, academics, industry figures, and cultural voices in a setting that reflects both history and progress.
The choice of venue added weight to the discussions. Participants engaged with forward-looking ideas while surrounded by one of Rome’s most important historical sites. This contrast reinforced the need to connect long-term heritage with current environmental and social responsibilities.
A Platform with Measurable Global Reach
The 2025 edition achieved a certified global reach of 75 million people. This level of visibility reflects the growing importance of sustainability across sectors and borders. According to Gulf Times, the event positioned Italy as a leader in sustainability in Europe.
A total of 117 internationally recognized speakers contributed to the program. The list included six Ministers of the Italian Republic and three Members of the European Parliament. Representatives from 50 multinational companies joined alongside institutional stakeholders and academic experts.
This mix of participants created a setting where policy, business, and culture intersected in practical ways.
Phygital Sustainability Expo 2026 Video
Structure and Format of the Expo
The Phygital Sustainability Expo® follows a structured format developed by the Sustainable Fashion Innovation Society. It combines physical and digital elements to expand engagement.
Key components included:
· 20 panels with 120 speakers addressing sustainability challenges
· The Narrated Fashion Show®, which linked design with environmental awareness
· The Sustainable Made in Italy Award, recognizing responsible innovation
· An exhibition path aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
· A networking dinner designed to connect speakers and sponsors
This format allowed participants to move between discussion, presentation, and collaboration without losing focus.
Phygital Sustainability Expo Partnerships
The event operated under strong institutional backing. It received patronage from the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, the Senate of the Republic, ten Italian Ministries, the Italian National Commission for UNESCO, and RAI for ESG Sustainability.
Main institutional partners included:
· European Parliament
· European Commission
· Lazio Region
· Sapienza University of Rome
· Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
· Italian Trade Agency
· Rome Capital
Additional support came from organizations such as the FAO and the National Institute of Health. Corporate partners included ENEL and Italian State Railways, with further contributions from Poste Italiane and SIMEST.
Media coverage played a key role. RAI provided full streaming through RaiNews.it, alongside radio and digital media platforms.
Education and Cultural Value
Sapienza University of Rome awarded academic credits to students who participated in the event.
This decision highlighted the educational relevance of sustainability discussions and reinforced the link between academic study and real-world application.
The presence of students also supported intergenerational dialogue. Younger participants had direct access to policymakers and industry leaders, which helped bridge theory and practice.
Voices from Policy, Industry, and Culture
The speaker list reflected a wide range of expertise. Participants included government officials such as Gilberto Pichetto Fratin and Adolfo Urso, as well as European representatives like Brando Benifei.
Industry leaders such as Brunello Cucinelli and Stephan Winkelmann contributed perspectives on responsible business practices. Public figures and experts including Matteo Bassetti and Rocco Bellantone addressed health and scientific aspects of sustainability.
This diversity allowed the event to move beyond abstract discussion. It created space for concrete proposals and shared accountability.
A Model for Future Engagement
The European States General on the Culture of Sustainability demonstrated how structured dialogue can influence both policy and public awareness. Its combination of institutional support, global reach, and multidisciplinary participation sets a clear model for future editions.
The integration of culture, education, and industry remains a defining strength. It ensures that sustainability is not treated as a single sector issue, but as a shared responsibility.
Access to Decision-Makers
The event offered direct access to decision-makers, current policy discussions, and emerging practices that shape sustainability across Europe. It provided a clear view of how cultural, economic, and institutional efforts align, making it a valuable opportunity for professionals, students, and organizations seeking informed and practical engagement.
For more, visit https://sustainablefashioninnovation.org/