During the first edition of the International Conference on the Popularization of Refrigeration in Africa (CIVUFA), Professor Marcello Collantin (Centro Studi Galileo) gave an important interview highlighting the pivotal role of the cold chain in supporting the continent’s sustainable development.
In his speech, Professor Collantin emphasised how an efficient cold chain represents a strategic tool to combat food waste, a phenomenon that in several regions of Africa – and in other vulnerable parts of the world – can reach up to 40% of total harvests. His analysis points to refrigerated transport as the most vulnerable element within Africa’s cold chain infrastructure. Professor Collantin underlined the need to better raise awareness among operators—particularly drivers—on the importance of continuous monitoring, recalling the challenges encountered when introducing simple tools such as temperature recorders for use during transit.
Training was central to the conclusion of the interview. Professor Collantin stressed the urgent need for qualified technicians in the refrigeration sector, both in African countries and in Europe. He also highlighted the role of Centro Studi Galileo, described as “the main organisation for the training and certification of refrigeration technicians.