The SALAM-MED General Assembly took place from February 12 to 15, 2025, at the Faculty of Science Semlalia in Marrakech, Morocco. The meeting gathered international partners to review project progress, discuss key findings, and explore future opportunities.
Day 1: Field Visits to Study Sites
Participants traveled to the Essaouira region to visit two sites:
- Boutazart (pastoralism site) – examined sustainable grazing practices and land management.
- Sidi El Jazouli (reforestation site) – assessed tree planting efforts and ecosystem restoration strategies.
These visits provided hands-on insight into the project’s practical applications, reinforcing the importance of local engagement and adaptation to environmental challenges.
Day 2: Project Review and Updates
The first day focused on evaluating the progress made in various Living Labs (LLs). Each national team presented their work, including implemented solutions, methodologies, and key outcomes. The session facilitated knowledge exchange and reinforced collective understanding of the project’s impact. A cost-benefit analysis of each LL was also presented, emphasizing economic, social, and environmental benefits. Discussions included:
- The development of a web-based tool to support citizen adoption of new technologies.
- The introduction of the CANVAS model for structuring upcoming results.
- Preparations for the third workshop agenda and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of LL activities.
Day 3: Business Opportunities and Scaling Up
Working groups engaged in discussions about the broader impacts of SALAM-MED technologies and business opportunities, with a particular focus on:
- The role of youth and women in LL initiatives.
- Cost-benefit analyses and scaling strategies.
- The potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) beyond the current project scope.
- The development of a digital platform integrating project results and stakeholder interactions.
An open discussion on science diplomacy and training initiatives underscored the need to invest in human capital alongside technological advancements.
Day 4: Future Collaboration and Dissemination
The final day focused on the strategic dissemination of SALAM-MED outcomes through joint publications, policy briefs, and scientific articles. Discussions addressed:
- The structure and responsibilities for upcoming publications.
- Financial management considerations for ongoing activities.
- Planning for the final project event in Sardinia (June 2025).
- Participation in the Arab Land Initiative (February 18-20, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco).
Conclusion
The General Assembly in Marrakech was instrumental in consolidating progress, fostering collaboration, and setting the course for the project’s next phase. The combination of in-depth discussions, field visits, and strategic planning reinforced SALAM-MED’s commitment to sustainable land management and stakeholder engagement.