CO2 Pacman: A Journey to Climate Neutrality in the Mediterranean

20/03/24 On a day full of expectations, the CO2 Pacman project has taken its first steps. Funded by the 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘨 𝘌𝘜𝘙𝘖 𝘔𝘌𝘋 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘮𝘦, this ambitious project's main objective is to move the Mediterranean islands towards carbon neutrality. But what makes CO2 Pacman so special?

Imagine a world where CO2 emissions are like ghosts haunting our planet. This is where our hero comes in: Pacman. Yes, that same yellow character we used to guide through mazes in video games. But this time, Pacman has a more important mission: to reduce carbon emissions.

The CO2 Pacman tool will be merged with a fun and interactive visual interface. Instead of eating dots and fruits, our virtual Pacman dives into a maze of climate solutions. Each solution represents an energy pill that Pacman greedily devours, resulting in less CO2 in the atmosphere! From solar panels to electric bikes, every choice counts.

But here's the really exciting part: everyone can join the game. The aim of this European project is that everyone from students to entrepreneurs can explore the tool, learn about climate solutions, and make informed choices. Awareness is key, and CO2 Pacman is here to educate and motivate.

CO2 Pacman involves 10 organizations from 7 European countries, including Spain, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. Led by the University of Sienna, this project will run for the next 33 months.

The objective of CO2 Pacman is to support Mediterranean islands in their transition towards climate neutrality, focusing on three islands (Brac (HR), Crete (EL) and Elba (IT)). The project aims to test and demonstrate innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve infrastructure and services, and economically diversify these islands. The ultimate goal is to contribute to climate neutrality in these regions.

In the words of Professor Simone Bastianoni, scientific coordinator of the project: "CO2 Pacman will address the challenges of climate change mitigation and adaptation. It will provide knowledge and guidelines for implementing integrated strategies and policies. Moreover, it aims to provide tools for public administrations to plan their transition towards decarbonisation, taking into account the specificities of territories and citizens. And let's not forget to raise awareness among citizens and students about the opportunities linked to the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy!"