As part of the Bel & Bien Vert Challenge, the finalist startups had the privilege of diving into the heart of the agro-food industry by visiting the Bel Algérie factory. This day was a unique opportunity to discover not only the behind-the-scenes of this iconic company but also its commitment to sustainability.

The BEL group places Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at the heart of its concerns. In 2022, as part of its "BEL LOW CARBON" program, the BEL group announced the ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by one-quarter across its entire value chain by 2035 (a goal validated by the Science-Based Targets Initiative and in line with the Paris Agreement), with the integration of carbon as a tool for managing activities.

In Algeria, the subsidiary BEL Algérie aims to contribute to achieving this goal and wishes to be among the first Algerian actors to track and improve its performance in terms of reducing the carbon impact of its activities, from the production plant to the end consumer.

The day began with a fascinating guided tour of the factory, where the startups were able to closely observe the manufacturing and production processes that make Bel Algérie a leader in the sector. An in-depth presentation of the Bel Algérie Group was also on the agenda, offering a comprehensive overview of the company, its vision, and its impact on the agro-food industry.

The visit continued with a stop at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (STEP), where the startups were able to discover the environmental initiatives implemented to reduce the company's carbon footprint.

The three winning startups participating in the Bel & Bien Vert program by Bel Algérie are:

• WATTS: proposes an innovative new technique through an active material filter designed to capture CO and CO2 from oil waste.
• Kantik Carbon: offers a comprehensive carbon footprint calculation solution, including both the carbon footprint (Footprint) and the positive carbon impact (Handprint).
• TerraLINK: a platform that facilitates eco-responsible consumption decision-making.

The day concluded with captivating debates and exchanges. The visit to Bel Algérie was an enriching experience for the finalist startups of the Bel & Bien Vert Challenge, illustrating the potential of the agro-food industry to reinvent itself for a more sustainable future.

They are offered several advantages, including the opportunity for open innovation collaboration with BEL ALGÉRIE, significant support and accompaniment, and a launch grant starting from 500,000 DZD to the best startup of the program, which will be revealed during the grand finale of the Algeria Startup Challenge.