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Day: 25 February 2025

UN biodiversity talks resume in Rome: Can the world finally fund conservation?

by: Cassandra Tanti
25/02/2025

The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) is underway in Rome, focusing on critical financial strategies to combat global biodiversity loss. The session follows the initial meeting in Cali, Colombia, last November, which concluded without consensus on key funding mechanisms.

A primary objective of the Rome talks is to finalise plans for mobilising $200 billion annually by 2030 to support biodiversity initiatives worldwide. This includes securing $20 billion per year by 2025 for developing nations, as stipulated in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted in 2022. To date, only $383 million has been pledged, highlighting a significant shortfall in committed resources.

Delegates will also deliberate on the operationalization of the “Cali Fund,” established to ensure that companies profiting from genetic resources share benefits equitably. This mechanism aims to direct financial gains from industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology back into conservation efforts, particularly benefiting Indigenous communities and biodiversity-rich developing countries.

The inclusion of Indigenous voices remains a pivotal aspect of the discussions. In Cali, a historic agreement was reached to create a subsidiary body that incorporates Indigenous peoples into future conservation decision-making processes, recognizing their vital role in safeguarding biodiversity.

As global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 73% over the past 50 years, the urgency for effective financial and strategic interventions has never been greater. The outcomes of the Rome session are anticipated to set the course for international biodiversity conservation efforts in the critical years ahead.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo credit: David Köhler, Unsplash

Record turnout at 2025 Monaco Employment Forum

by: Elsa Carpenter
25/02/2025
Monaco Employment Forum Monaco pour l'Emploi

Nearly 6,000 people from Monaco and beyond attended the 2025 Monaco Employment Forum, setting a new record and surpassing previous editions in scale and scope. As job opportunities in the Principality continue to grow, the event has become a key meeting point for companies looking to expand their teams and jobseekers eager to find new career paths and prospects.

The third edition of the Monaco Employment Forum, held at the Grimaldi Forum on Monday 24th February, was a resounding success. A total of 5,938 participants took part, connecting with around 100 Monaco-based companies representing a variety of sectors and industries.

This year’s event was the largest to date in both turnout and scope. From an expanded yachting sector and a newly introduced luxury industry zone to on-the-spot interviews with prospective employers, the forum provided jobseekers with direct access to company representatives, recruiters and HR teams, helping them learn more about available opportunities and make valuable connections.

See more: Hiring in Monaco: key takeaways from the 2025 Employment Forum

Speaking to Monaco Info following the forum, Christophe Robino, Monaco’s Minister of Social Affairs and Health, said, “Monaco plays a crucial role in employment for the Alpes-Maritimes, with job opportunities steadily growing at a rate of 4% per year. This expanding workforce is essential to the sustainability and development of businesses and the Principality’s economic model. The financial health of Monaco’s social and pension funds is closely linked to employment growth.”

He added, “All sectors are actively recruiting, with some experiencing particularly high demand. The temporary employment sector is seeking many candidates, as are hospitality, catering, digital services and finance. Monaco remains an attractive destination for workers due to its economic stability, quality working conditions, generous social benefits and higher-than-average salaries. Employee loyalty to Monegasque businesses is strong, offering long-term job security.”

The minister also addressed broader employment-related concerns, stating, “While traffic congestion at Monaco’s entry points is an increasing challenge, the forum did not specifically focus on remote work. However, teleworking is being adopted more widely, including for employees residing in Italy, thanks to new agreements. The government is also promoting carpooling and digital mobility solutions to ease transportation issues. Additionally, a housing charter was signed during the forum to secure accommodation for seasonal workers, and several Monegasque companies have already expressed interest in the initiative.”

The fourth edition of the Monaco Employment Forum, known as Monaco pour l’Emploi in French, is expected to take place in February 2026.

Monaco Life was there! Check out our Instagram reel of the event below:

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo credit: Manuel Vitali / Monaco Communications Department

Pine processionary caterpillars: how to identify them and the dangers to be aware of

by: Stephanie Horsman
25/02/2025

All across the Riviera, nests of the pine processionary caterpillar are hatching. The young caterpillars, which are covered in toxic, irritating hairs, make a yearly appearance in the region just ahead of the start of spring, signaling a time of worry for many pet owners and hikers.

If you’ve spent any time wandering in the forests and parks of the south of France recently, you may well have noticed the nests of the pine processionary caterpillar. These silk cocoons, around the size of a melon, are distinctively white and candyfloss-like, and sit in the canopy of pines native to the region.

The pine processionary caterpillar is also native to the Mediterranean region, and has been observed in habitats ranging from France and Spain to Greece, Turkey, and North Africa. In recent years, the effects of climate change have allowed the caterpillar to spread its wings further still, with sightings of the caterpillars and nests as far north as Strasbourg.

They have been noted in Monaco too, although the government has taken action to limit their spread by attaching traps to affected trees.

Pine processionary caterpillars can grow up to 40mm long, with a striking orange-brown coloration accented by black bands on a furry body that makes them relatively easy to identify. Their name is derived from their unique method of movement. Once they leave their nests, they travel in single-file lines along pathways and open spaces.

The issue with the species is that the caterpillars are covered almost entirely in toxic hairs. Exposure to these fine, light-coloured bristles can cause significant irritation upon contact. In severe cases, exposure can be fatal.

For humans, direct exposure to the caterpillar’s bristles can result in a painful rash and severe eye irritation. In animals, particularly cats and dogs, symptoms include excessive drooling and tongue swelling that requires immediate veterinary attention. If access to medical care is delayed, applying ice or peppermint drops can help reduce swelling until professional help is available.

Dog owners should be particularly wary of these caterpillars. Given their natural curiosity, which can lead them to investigate the caterpillars up close, dogs that come into contact with the pine processionary caterpillar are at risk of experiencing serious allergic reactions, lesions, and, in extreme cases, loss of part of the tongue or even death.

If a pet comes into contact with processionary caterpillars and begins showing symptoms such as limb swelling or vomiting, immediate action is required. Vets warn against rubbing the affected area, as this can spread the toxic hairs further. Instead, the area should be rinsed thoroughly with water, directing the flow outward from the mouth so as to limit the risk of the hairs reaching the animal’s mouth. Pet owners should also wear gloves and a mask when handling their animal to avoid exposure themselves.

Following initial first aid, pet owners should contact their veterinarian or emergency services such as 3115 to assess the situation and determine if hospitalisation is necessary.

Efforts to control the caterpillar population in the south of France have been in place for over a decade, but they continue to be a persistent problem in the PACA region, particularly between early February and mid-March.

Read related:

Mimosa season is here, but not everyone can enjoy it

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo credit: Rabiem, Flickr

Final act of Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series set for March

by: Niki Borisova
25/02/2025

At the start of March, the Primo Cup – Trophée UBS will return to the waters of the Principality for its 41st edition, bringing top international crews, the debut of the ClubSwan 28 and the final act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series. 

The Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) will host the 2025 Primo Cup – Trophée UBS from 6th to 9th March. More than 450 sailors from around the world are expected to compete in the event, held in partnership with UBS and the Mairie de Monaco. The regatta will feature five one-design classes: J/70, Smeralda 888, ClubSwan 28, Longtze Premier and Cape 31.

Since its launch in 1985 by YCM President Prince Albert II, the Primo Cup has become a well-respected fixture in the European sailing calendar. This year, around 90 crews are set to race, with the J/70 class once again being the largest, fielding 45 teams. The event will also serve as the final stage of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series 2024/25.

“The Primo Cup-UBS Trophy has long been viewed as a key event on the race calendar, its reputation drawing sailors from all over the world every year,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.

The 2025 edition will mark the official international debut of the ClubSwan 28, a new sportsboat from Finnish shipyard Nautor’s Swan (pictured above). The 8.5m vessel is designed for performance and ease of transport, featuring a carbon mast, a reinforced fibreglass hull and a lifting keel that eliminates the need for special transport permits. The Primo Cup has frequently served as a testing ground for new boat designs, and this launch continues that tradition.

The regatta will also bring the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series to a close. The J/70 fleet, led so far by YCM member Stefano Roberti, will compete in the final act of the 2024/25 season. First introduced in 2013, the Winter Series has become an important training opportunity for international teams ahead of major European and global events.

Racing will begin on 6th March with warm-up events from 2.30pm, followed by official races for all classes at noon on 7th March. The competition will continue on 8th and 9th March, starting at 11am each day, with the last possible warning signal scheduled for 3pm on the final day. A prize-giving ceremony will follow.

Weather conditions may influence the final schedule, but organisers anticipate a competitive weekend of sailing in Monaco’s famous waters.

Read related:

Trophée Virginie Hériot: Yacht Club de Monaco launches all-new J/70 regatta for women

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo source: Yacht Club de Monaco

Nice’s largest luxury hotel gets the green light for historic city centre site

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
25/02/2025

The City of Nice has confirmed that a permit has been issued for the construction of a luxury four-star hotel – the largest in Nice – on the site of the Marché de la Buffa, a century-old landmark in the centre of the city.

After several months of exchanges between the City of Nice, the Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur and the Architecte des Bâtiments de France, the building permit was officially granted to the management company APICAP, it was announced on 14th February.

The once-bustling covered marketplace, which has stood abandoned for years, will find new life in a four-star hotel featuring a supermarket and parking lot.

The news has been welcomed by many locals, with one resident telling Monaco Life: ‘’Back in the 1980s, it used to be a great market. We could find everything there. But then, little by little, stores started to close. Look at it now. I’m glad they will turn it into a hotel.’’

After initially being sold to SAS CAMAX in 2007, a company which later entered bankruptcy, property developer APICAP purchased the site in 2021, but the project only existed on paper as the developer and the Municipality of Nice debated the final details. Multiple proposals were considered, including the construction of a smaller four-star hotel and underground parking. However, none proved financially viable. 

The Marché de la Buffa was once a bustling fresh produce market for local, but has been slowly abandoned over the years. Photo by Monaco Life

A new development that will transform the neighbourhood 

Following extensive heated discussions, plans have been approved and the permit has been issued for a high-quality development consisting of a 13,000m2 luxury hotel with 358 rooms – “the largest in Nice” – , a 1,000m2 ground floor supermarket, a two-level underground parking lot, and pedestrian access connecting the streets Buffa and Joffre. 

Architect Jean-Paul Gomis designed the project, which will occupy the Gambetta-Joffre corner. The existing Casino supermarket, now residing at the same corner, will have to be demolished and rebuilt as part of the development. 

The investment has been welcomed by neighbouring businesses, who anticipate an increase in pedestrian traffic as a result of the new hotel. Staff at the nearby Rotisserie restaurant told Monaco Life: ‘’This could be very beneficial for the neighbourhood. A hotel always brings more clients and since we are quite far from the centre of Jean Médecin, we need more people our way.’’

The sentiment was shared by an employee at the Multari bakery: ‘’The hotel will certainly help. Look at our street – it’s empty. While the city-centre streets are full and the Nice Carnival is in full swing, we are quiet. The new bus lane on Gambetta has made car access even more difficult for businesses, so the hotel will help.” 

However, there are concerns about the impact during the construction phase. ‘’I assume the construction period will be difficult, especially for residents dealing with dust and noise,’’ the bakery worker added.

The project is part of a broader project to revitalise Boulevard Gambetta and develop green areas, aiming to strengthen the residential and commercial attractiveness of the sector.

According to the municipality, the building will be of “high quality and harmonious design,” adhering to architectural guidelines within Nice’s UNESCO heritage perimeter. A delivery date is yet to be revealed. 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Hands-on workshops offer insight into Hubert Clerissi’s art

by: Niki Borisova
25/02/2025

As part of the ongoing Hubert Clerissi exhibition in Monaco, a series of free workshops linked to the Monegasque artist’s style and techniques are being offered to children and adults who come to view the displays in February and March.

The Hubert Clerissi – Espaces Ciselés exhibition, currently on display at the Salle d’Exposition du Quai Antoine 1er, explores the artistic evolution of the Monegasque painter and architect. Known for his detailed cityscapes and structural precision, Clerissi’s work reflects a fusion of artistic expression and architectural discipline, an approach that evolved throughout his life.

The exhibition is supported by the Mairie de Monaco in collaboration with the Princely Government’s Cultural Affairs Department, the Pavillon Bosio – École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques and the Villa Arson in Nice, and will run until 12th March.

See more:Where architectural precision meets artistic expression: Monaco unveils new Hubert Clerissi exhibition

Over the next few weeks, the venue hosting the exhibition will also be holding a series of free workshops for children and adults, allowing people of all ages to engage with Clerissi’s work.

Sessions include Des lignes en folie / ou les cactées for children aged five to nine on 26th February, 5th March and 12th March, and Une histoire de timbres for adults, which will take place on 10th March.

Other workshops, such as Le Monaco d’antan on 28th February and 7th March, and Voyager à travers les perspectives on 22nd February, 1st March and 8th March, cater to both adults and older children.

All sessions are free but require prior registration as places are limited. To sign up, contact 06 80 86 31 20 or stop by the exhibition on Quai Antoine 1er.

To see more of the exhibition, watch Monaco Life’s reel below: 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo source: Mairie de Monaco