At the heart of Egypt’s sustainability movement, SEKEM’s Heliopolis University hosted the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA) Carbon Ceremony during the “Localizing Organic Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Cultivation” Forum. The event spotlighted the power of organic and biodynamic farming in addressing global challenges like water scarcity and climate change, particularly in the New Valley region.

Distinguished figures, including Dr. Hani Sweilem (Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation), Mr. Alaa Farouk (Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation), Major General Dr. Mohamed El-Zamlout (Governor of the New Valley), and Dr. Mohamed Hani Ghoneim (Governor of Beni Suef), joined the conversation, reinforcing the national commitment to sustainable agriculture.

A key moment of the forum was the recognition of 100 EBDA farmers who successfully transitioned to organic and biodynamic agriculture, receiving carbon credits as a reward for their commitment to sustainable farming. The event also featured a compelling presentation from Concrete, Egypt’s leading menswear and kids’ wear retailer, which shared its sustainability journey — showcasing how it offsets carbon emissions by purchasing credits through the EBDA’s pioneering Economy of Love (EoL) standard.

Founded in 2012 as part of the SEKEM Initiative, Heliopolis University is a hub for research and innovation in sustainability. From renewable energy to advanced water management, its work with national and international partners drives progress in key fields such as agriculture, mechatronics, biotechnology, and pharmacy. Beyond research, the university leads by example, integrating solar power, wastewater treatment, and circular economy principles into campus life. At its core, Heliopolis University is shaping the next generation of social entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools to create lasting change through innovation and collaboration.