Join us at the 10th International Conference on Island Sustainability organized by the GTI Foundation

por | Sep 26, 2025 | Upcoming events

Gozo, Malta | October 29-31, 2025

Expanding Holistic Island-led Solutions to Drive Global Sustainability and Climate Action 
The RETOUCH NEXUS project is proud to announce the hosting by the Greening the Islands (GTI) Foundation of the 10th GTI International Conference, taking place in Gozo, Malta, from October 29-31, 2025. This landmark event marks a decade of global collaboration in advancing sustainable solutions for island communities worldwide.
A Decade of Island Sustainability Leadership 

The Conference will be held at The Reef Hotel in Gozo, Malta, with around 150 in-person attendees and over 500 expected online, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders from island communities, international development and finance institutions, industry leaders, innovative solution providers, project developers, academia, and civil society from around the world. 

Under the theme “Expanding Holistic Island-led Solutions to Drive Global Sustainability and Climate Action,” this anniversary edition will showcase how integrated approaches to sustainability can drive meaningful change at both local and global scales. 

RETOUCH NEXUS: Championing the WEFE Nexus for Island Communities 

The RETOUCH NEXUS project is dedicated to tackling the growing challenge of water scarcity by promoting an integrated Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach that supports the EU water economy and relies on ecological and social considerations. Our partnership with GTI represents a natural alignment of missions, as both organizations recognize the critical importance of holistic resource management for sustainable development. 

The project will design and advance integrated, innovative and inclusive smart water governance schemes and institutional settings aiming at a secure water future in the EU that is resilient to climate change. 

Session 4: Transforming Islands Through WEFE Nexus Governance 

RETOUCH NEXUS will be the key partner for Session 4: “The transformative potential of the WEFE nexus – Governance for a circular island economy.” This pivotal session will explore how the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem nexus can enable small islands to become circularity hubs. 

The session will highlight how integrated resource management approaches through nexus-oriented governance can deliver: 

  • Environmental Benefits: Enhanced ecosystem services and reduced environmental degradation 
  • Economic Advantages: Improved resource efficiency and new economic opportunities 
  • Security Enhancements: Strengthened water and food security for island communities 
  • Pollution Reduction: Decreased waste and environmental contamination

Through real-world case studies, shared experiences, and innovative technologies, participants will discover practical pathways to implementing circular economy principles on islands. 

Why Islands Matter for Global Sustainability 

Islands face unique sustainability challenges due to their geographic isolation, limited resources, and vulnerability to climate change. However, these same characteristics make them ideal testing grounds for innovative sustainability solutions. Successful island-based approaches can be scaled and adapted for broader global application. 

The WEFE nexus approach is particularly relevant for island communities, where the interconnections between water, energy, food, and ecosystems are more apparent and critical to daily life. Building upon the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus, RETOUCH NEXUS aims to promote robust, integrated, sustainable, inclusive, and upscalable water governance practices. 

Celebrating Excellence: The 9th GTI Awards for Sustainable Projects 

A highlight of the 10th GTI International Conference will be the presentation of the 9th edition of the GTI Awards, which recognizes and celebrates the most forward-thinking and impactful island projects worldwide. The Greening the Islands Awards recognize and disseminate the most innovative projects that demonstrate an integrated sustainability approach, with all island projects worldwide allowed to participate including programmes, initiatives and policies. 

These prestigious awards showcase exemplary island sustainability projects that serve as models for replication and scaling across different island contexts. Previous winners have included groundbreaking initiatives from islands across the globe, demonstrating innovative approaches to renewable energy, water management, sustainable agriculture, waste reduction, and ecosystem conservation. 

The GTI Awards ceremony will provide an inspiring platform to celebrate the creativity, dedication, and impact of island communities and their partners in advancing sustainable development goals. It’s a testament to the power of local innovation to drive global change. 

Join the Movement 

The 10th GTI International Conference represents a unique opportunity to engage with leading experts, policymakers, and practitioners working at the forefront of sustainable island development. Whether you’re interested in water governance, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, or ecosystem management, this conference offers valuable insights and networking opportunities. 

Event Details: 
  • Dates: October 29-31, 2025 
  • Location: The Reef Hotel, Gozo, Malta 
  • Format: Hybrid (in-person and online participation available) 
  • Expected Attendance: 150 in-person participants, 500+ online attendees 
        Register here