From October 11 to 13, 2024, Bardolino (VR) will host the **XII edition of the International Geography Festival**, an event aimed at exploring global challenges related to food and population growth. With a continuously expanding world population, the festival will bring together experts to discuss sustainable solutions and strategies to address the expected increase of two billion people by 2050.
## Population Growth and Food Resources
The current world population is estimated to be around **8 billion**, and according to demographic studies, continents such as America, Europe, and Oceania will not experience significant changes in their numbers. In contrast, Africa and Asia will see considerable increases. This growth entails an escalating need for raw materials, particularly in the food sector. The future thus requires strategic planning to ensure sufficient production of essential grains such as rice, wheat, and corn.
## A Multidisciplinary Event
The mayor of Bardolino, Daniele Bertasi, emphasized the importance of promoting a sensitive agricultural culture that involves all stakeholders in the production chain. This year’s edition will not only target students and professionals in the field but also geographers, agronomists, and winemakers. This multidisciplinary approach aims to highlight the centrality of the territory in sustainable agricultural development.
## Protection of Agricultural Productions
The safeguarding of agriculture is crucial for the country’s future. Proposed strategies include protecting biodiversity and enhancing local typical products. Marta Ferrari, the Cultural Councillor of the Municipality of Bardolino, expressed the administration’s commitment to raising awareness among institutions on these critical issues.
## Focus on Venetian Excellence
Veneto is known for its agricultural products such as corn, wheat, and rice, as well as its renowned wines and olive oils. The presence of certifications like DOC and DOP adds value to the local offerings. Paolo Gila, the festival’s creator, emphasized that the protection of the land also leads to the preservation of the quality of agri-food products.
## Program of Presentations
The program includes presentations from recognized experts in the field of raw materials. It will begin with Paolo Gila, who will present general trends regarding food resources. This will be followed by Maurizio Mazziero focusing on the main cereal-producing countries, and Luigi Consiglio discussing the complexities of international supply chains.
The second part of the conference will address the crucial role of consortia in defending typical productions; Fabio Dei Micheli will talk about the importance of quality, while Sara Mafficini will clarify the meanings of European designations related to food products.
## Exhibition and Side Events
During the festival, an exhibition dedicated to the historical labels of Bardolino wine will be set up in the municipality’s wedding hall until October 13. Guided tours will be conducted by food and wine designer Fabrizio Marchionni on specific dates.
Additionally, “The Food Journeys” will return, a gastronomic showcase that combines culinary aspects with geographical ones; this year, the spotlight will be on “Riso al Chiaretto di Bardolino,” a dish increasingly popular among residents and tourists in local restaurants.
For more details about the event, you can visit the [official festival website](https://festivalgeografiabardolino.it).
Italian Version
