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Day: 10 July 2025

Fontvieille waste-to-energy system to be modernised with new recovery unit

by: Cassandra Tanti
10/07/2025

Monaco has confirmed plans to build a new Energy Recovery Unit in Fontvieille, replacing its ageing incineration facility and reaffirming its long-standing commitment to managing waste locally. The move, driven by legal, environmental, and strategic concerns, ensures the Principality maintains control over a critical part of its public services.

The decision follows a legal assessment commissioned by the government, which concluded that exporting all of Monaco’s waste to another country – such as France or Italy – could carry serious legal risks. According to the analysis, European and international regulations make full externalisation a fragile option.

“The government has decided to preserve a minimum waste treatment capacity in Monaco in order to guarantee the country’s autonomy,” officials said. “Outsourcing this mission entirely would neither be legally secure nor responsible in terms of public service and sovereignty.”

The proposed energy recovery facility will be built on the current Fontvieille site after the existing plant is demolished. Authorities say it will not only handle Monaco’s waste but also convert it into energy – producing heat, cold, and electricity for the local area. It will include a system for processing wastewater sludge.

Modernising Fontvieille’s unique energy system

Fontvieille is home to an unusual and highly efficient energy model: 95% of its heating, 30% of its cooling, and part of its electricity come from waste-to-energy conversion. Officials say scrapping that capability would undermine a system developed over decades.

By investing in the new Energy Recovery Unit, Monaco aims to upgrade that model, securing both energy independence and long-term climate goals.

The project replaces two alternative strategies that were ultimately set aside. One was the idea of full waste export, deemed too uncertain; the other, known as the ‘Symbiose’ project, failed to meet technical and operational requirements. After reviewing both, the government opted for what it describes as “a concrete and sustainable solution”.

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Photo source: Government Communications Department 

Florist Marco Traverso celebrates four decades of artistry

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
10/07/2025

Monaco’s renowned florist Marco Traverso celebrated his four decade career and enduring partnership with Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse on Wednesday in an intimate gathering at Louis XV in the Hôtel de Paris.

The Italian-French artisan has earned the title ‘jeweller of flowers’ for his meticulous craft. Speaking to Monaco life, he reflected on his journey from the old Monte-Carlo market to becoming one of the principality’s most sought-after floral artists. “What is most important to me is making my clients happy,” he said.

A partnership built on excellence

The collaboration between Traverso and Ducasse began in 1982 when the florist approached the chef with admiration regarding his approach to gastronomy. What initially started as a trial arrangement for the central bouquet at Louis XV led to a four-decade partnership.

“I learned so much working with him,” Traverso explained. “I think he’s one of the best chefs in the world.”

Ducasse, who wasn’t present during the event, had previously spoken warmly of their partnership, praising the florist’s ability to “express their particular sensitivity while adapting perfectly to the context in which they work”.

The chef also compared their crafts, noting that both require passion, hard work, and an understanding that they are “artisans of the ephemeral”.

Marco Traverso at Louis XV restaurant in Hôtel de Paris, photo by Monaco Life.

The art of floral mastery

According to Traverso, his approach goes beyond tradition arrangements. Working from his atelier like a jeweller with precious stones, he selects, respects, and transforms flowers into unique works of art. His creations have graced some of Monaco’s most prestigious events, from the iconic bouquet in the Hôtel de Paris hall to the centrepieces for the Red Cross Gala.

When asked about future plans, Traverso remains focused on his core philosophy: client satisfaction above all else. “It doesn’t matter about the money or what I earn. It’s about seeing the clients happy. This is my approach.”

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Pink Ribbon Monaco names Su Park as ambassador and head of events

by: Cassandra Tanti
10/07/2025

Pink Ribbon Monaco has announced the appointment of Su Park as its ambassador and director of events. The South Korean global entrepreneur will take her place alongside Vice‑President Tiffany Cromwell, Olympic and European gravel cycling champion, to spearhead the association’s international awareness and prevention efforts against women’s cancers.

With a decade-long base in Paris and now residing in Monaco, Su Park brings recognised expertise in the fine art and luxury sectors. Celebrated among Forbes’ ’30 Under 30′ for her advocacy of women’s leadership, she is known for a nuanced, cross-cultural approach that spans strategy, creativity and empathy.

A holistic vision for Pink Ribbon Monaco

Her remit includes designing and overseeing flagship events in Monaco and abroad, launching innovative awareness campaigns, and forging strategic partnerships anchored in integrity. Park embodies the association’s ethos: a blend of poise and purpose firmly rooted in a holistic vision of women’s wellbeing.

Gala to mark a new chapter

Park’s first major initiative will be the annual gala on 11th October 2025 at Hôtel de Paris Monte‑Carlo. This premiere event will usher in a new era defined by empowerment, influence, and impact.

Voices on the new leadership

“Su, like Tiffany, embodies Pink Ribbon Monaco’s essence: grace, brilliance, strength and resolve,” said Founder and President Natasha Frost‑Savio. Su Park added, “As women, we thrive when united by a shared vision and a common cause. It is a privilege to contribute to a movement that celebrates courage, education and sisterhood … Pink Ribbon Monaco is more than a cause: it is a call to action. I am deeply honoured to serve it.”

Looking ahead

Upcoming highlights include the three‑day event culminating in the October gala, an innovative awareness campaign throughout October 2025, and, in 2026, a high‑profile charity golf tournament featuring a collaborative format with a world‑renowned musician. In parallel, Pink Ribbon Monaco will continue supporting research into lobular breast cancer at the Princess Grace Hospital Centre.

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Photo provided

CFM Indosuez reveals plans to transform Monaco building into ‘Everblue’ tower

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
10/07/2025

CFM Indosuez has unveiled its architectural plans for ‘Everblue’, an ambitious renovation and extension of its 1999 headquarters. The new project will add two floors to the existing building and significantly enhance its environmental credentials.

The 24-month construction timeline is set to be completed in the second half of 2027, representing the latest major real estate investment in the banking sector.

Construction timeline and impact

The construction is set to begin quietly with interior demolition, while visible activity won’t start until September. CFM Indosuez has temporarily relocated its nearly 400 employees to alternative locations, while maintaining normal operations across its five Monaco branches.

The bank, operating in Monaco since 1922, acquired the building in 2019 as “a symbol of the bank’s deep roots in the Principality,” said Vincent Thomas, Deputy General Manager. “CFM Indosuez reaffirms its role as a committed leader in Monaco’s ecological transition while deepening its roots at the heart of Monaco.”

Image source: CFM Indosuez

Environmental innovation

The renovation addresses aging infrastructure and modern environmental standards. The original all-glass facades that created light issues for employees working on screens will be replaced by a new design by architects Jérôme Hein (The A Group) and Eric Puzenat (Ateliers 2/3/4/), which significantly reduces glazed surfaces while improving natural light control, earning BD2M G old certification.

The design also draws inspiration from Monaco’s landscape, creating a “mountain extension” that resembles the Rock of Monaco. Features include sculpted stone facades with integrated hanging gardens, a rooftop pavilion, and suspended terraces creating “a dialogue between mineral and vegetal.”

The renovation uses “conscientious rehabilitation”, preserving the existing concrete structure while adding lightweight extensions. The sustainable approach uses dry construction methods with no concrete poured on-site, using wooden frame systems for infill between existing concrete pillars.

Additionally, the extension features steel structure with wood-concrete composite floors, while it connects to Monaco’s thalassothermal energy loop, drawing heating and cooling from the Mediterranean sea. The rooftop also includes 37 square meters of photovoltaic panels for renewable energy.

The building’s interior, photo provided by CFM Indosuez.

Technical details

The expanded building will cover 3,812 square meters across 30 metres in height, representing the largest trading floor in the Principality. The facility will include 49 parking spaces with 25% equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, advanced air treatment systems working with the thalassothermal connection, and a top floor dedicated to premium client salons with double-height ceilings.

As architect Jérôme Hein noted: “We’re in a territory that constantly rebuilds upon itself. I think it’s very important today and in the future to start valuing our existing heritage rather than constantly demolishing and rebuilding.

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Main before and after photo provided by CFM Indosuez.

 

Countess of Carladès steps forward: Princess Gabriella celebrated on historic family visit

by: Cassandra Tanti
10/07/2025

Princess Gabriella stepped into a more public role on 9th July as she joined Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene and her twin brother Prince Jacques for a visit to Carladès, the region tied to her title as Countess. The day featured a series of tributes that quietly marked her growing presence within Monaco’s public life.

Princess Gabriella took centre stage during the official visit to Carladès, the rural region of southern France historically linked to the Grimaldi dynasty. Accompanied by her parents and brother, the 10-year-old Princess was at the heart of several dedications that acknowledged both her family’s legacy and her symbolic role in it.

Square Princess Gabriella unveiled in Vic-sur-Cère

The first stop was Vic-sur-Cère, once the capital of the County of Carladès and home to a former residence of the Princes of Monaco. Here, Square Princess Gabriella was officially inaugurated as part of a wider urban renewal project. In a formal gesture led by Mayor Annie Delrieu, Princess Gabriella was presented with the key to the town.

Square Princess Gabriella was officially inaugrated during the visit. Photo credit: Eric Mathon, Prince’s Palace

Prince Albert, addressing local officials and residents, described the visit as “a way for our children to connect with their history not just through books, but through the people and places that continue to give it meaning.” He was careful to situate the visit in the present, not as a return to outdated forms of ceremony, but as “a reciprocal acknowledgement of shared history”.

A new namesake library in Mur-de-Barrez

Later, in Mur-de-Barrez, the Princely Family were welcomed to a new media library, which will now carry the name Princess Gabriella Media Library, following a proposal by the Aubrac-Carladez-Viadène community. The Princess, still at ease despite the official setting, was introduced to local children and residents, as her father noted the importance of creating “living links” with communities historically connected to Monaco.

Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene and their children Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella – the Countess of Carladès, stepping into her role with grace and honour. Photo credit: Eric Mathon, Prince’s Palace

A stamp bearing the image of the town’s Tour de Monaco was also unveiled by Prince Albert, part of the Grimaldi Historic Sites initiative, which now spans over 80 towns across France with longstanding links to the Principality.

A quiet moment in Carlat rounds off the day

The day concluded in Carlat, where a small botanical garden was opened in Princess Gabriella’s name. A family photograph was taken beside a tree famously associated with Prince Albert’s grandmother, Princess Charlotte, linking three generations through a simple, personal gesture rather than formal tribute.

Prince Albert, Princess Charlene and their children with a family photograph linking them to this exact tree. Photo credit: Eric Mathon, Prince’s Palace

First granted to Monaco by King Louis XIII in 1643, Carladès is part of the rich web of historical ties that still shape Monaco’s cultural diplomacy. With the visit, Princess Gabriella begins to step into her role as Countess of Carladès—not as a ceremonial figure, but as part of a contemporary effort to sustain meaningful, cross-generational links with the French territories that share the Principality’s past.

See more in the gallery below. All photos credit: Eric Mathon/Palais princier

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