A Sustainable Blue Economy

CIBEA is uniting public and private entities to shape a sustainable Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean

The vision

The Ceylon Italy Blue Economy Association (CIBEA) is forging a groundbreaking partnership between Sri Lankan and Italian stakeholders, uniting public and private entities to shape a sustainable Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean.

At the heart of our vision lies the decarbonisation of trans-oceanic maritime transport, a future we believe hinges on the development of Green Corridors and Hydrogen Cluster infrastructure in strategic and interconnected ports.

Green Corridors are dedicated shipping routes that champion zero-emission navigation, setting a new standard for eco-friendly maritime practices. These routes will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also foster innovation and economic growth.

Hydrogen Cluster infrastructure will establish a network of companies and facilities in one net-zero Special Economic Zone (SEZ) dedicated to the production, storage, and distribution of hydrogen, a clean fuel with immense potential. This infrastructure will pave the way for the development of e-methanol and green ammonia, further expanding our clean energy portfolio.

By integrating these principles, we aim to create a paradigm shift towards eco-friendly maritime practices that will bolster economic growth, nurture marine ecosystems, and foster innovation.

We invite Sri Lankan and Italian decision-makers from both the public and private sectors to join us in this transformative endeavor. Together, we can champion trans-oceanic Green Corridors and the Green Hydrogen Cluster, propelling us towards a future defined by prosperity, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

The specific Goals of CIBEA

  • Establish a Green Corridor (H2GreenCo Genoa-Trinco) connecting Port of Genoa, Italy, to Trincomalee Port, Sri Lanka.
  • Develop a Green H2 Hub in Trincomalee as a Net-Zero Special Economic Zone to foster partnerships between Sri Lankan and Italian companies.
  • Advocate a Blue Economy Corridor inland, connecting Colombo and Trincomalee.
  • Establish the ZEMA (Zero Emission Maritime Alliance), a R&I Centre of Excellence in Sri Lanka under the scientific direction of the University of Genoa, Italy, hosting the Secretariat of the Green Corridor and housed in a landmark building designed by an eco-friendly international renowned Italian architect.

the Benefits of a Sustainable Blue Economy promoted by CIBEA:

  • Catalyze efficient and sustainable trans-oceanic trade for Italian suppliers of goods and services required in the Hydrogen value chain.
  • Bridge continents, decarbonize shipping and fuels, and nurture economic growth of Sri Lanka through partnerships with impact investors.
  • Harness ocean resources and cutting-edge technologies in collaboration with scientists, entrepreneurs, and public authorities to produce green hydrogen and its derivatives for bunkering oceangoing vessels on the Asia-Europe route.
  • Usher in a new era of sustainability, economic growth, and innovation, making Sri Lanka a hub of clean energy and a leader among island nations in combating climate change through innovative business models.