projects, renewables. All resources that are created, optimised and distributed by a smart system that functions 24 hours a day. All consumers of resources and producers of resources too!

But Kolam s growing success is due to its cooperative method between the members.

Each local network brings together col- leges of elected representatives, citizens, manufacturers, farmers, associations who jointly define the region s ambitions for resource management, and collabo- ratively contribute to the governance and the characteristics of the network, according to the specifics of their region.

The Provence network, which has been under construction for more than a year, will establish the region as a pioneer in southern Europe. Even the most cautious forecasts point to a reduction of green- house gas emissions in the region of more than 20%, thanks to the radical optimi- sation of the consumption, reuse and transportation of resources. It will also substantially cut the energy bill.

The network in Provence, which calls extensively on the sharing of best practices in technological deployment and governance with regions in Latin America and North Africa, where the networks are

already operational, could pave the way to the inter-connected management of resources with our Mediterranean neighbours. Informed observers have already noted the frequent visits by representatives of the Kolam network in the region of Fez, Morocco. It appears that discussions are already under way to promote in Provence certain processed agricultural products from Morocco, such as olive oil. This would be the first inter-connected Kolam network between Europe and North Africa and the illustration of a Mediterranean economy which would be circular.

Watch this space

RESOURCE-FICTION

Even the most cautious forecasts point to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the region of more than 20%, thanks to the radical optimisation of the consumption, reuse and transportation of resources.

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