Marina di Ravenna's Wild Mussel Festival Boosts Tourism and Circular Economy

The 13th edition of the Festa della Cozza Selvaggia in Marina di Ravenna attracted thousands of locals and tourists. The event celebrates wild mussels that grow spontaneously on the submerged structures of Eni’s offshore platforms, now protected by a collective trademark registered in 2021. Cooperatives, the municipality, Slow Food Ravenna and Eni collaborate to turn what was once a waste residue into a premium product, creating jobs and supporting a circular‑economy model. The festival features boat trips to the platforms, cultural programmes and a showcase of regional chefs, highlighting the mussel’s size, flavor and plastic‑free growth. Barbara Monti, Ravenna’s agriculture assessor, said the celebration “is a vital tourist engine, especially as Ravenna serves as Italy’s Sea Capital this year.” The initiative is presented as a model of sustainable development that strengthens local identity, boosts the hospitality sector and promotes environmental stewardship.