Circular Economy: Mapping Food Streams and Identifying Potentials to Close the Food Cycle

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Alpine Space

Date of latest update: 2025-04-23

Description

Description (EN):

The vulnerability of Alpine areas calls to rethink the sustainability framework towards measurable actions. Food waste, for instance in the hospitality sector, occurs due to food overproduction, takeaway services or packaging. Little data and monitoring is at hand and no alpine-wide methodology available to measure resource savings along the food stream. Applying the concept of the Circular Economy (CE) to the food stream (production, use, disposal), the project creates a sustainable methodology to avoid food waste, re-use resources, and to close food cycles. For this, resource saving potentials for defined product categories such as fruit & vegetables, meat or dairy products are identified by consolidating Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) standards. Based on data related to food production and consumption, connected CO2 emissions, Artificial Intelligence (AI) helps to design a digital service system that connects and enables stakeholders inside (e.g. farmers, food retailers, gastronomy) and outside the food stream (e.g. social associations, food banks, bio-energy generators) to identify optimization potentials to transparently close food cycles and monitor food waste and CO2 emission reduction. Such a holistic perspective is the foundation skill and capacity development of stakeholders, enhancing sustainable, circular economic competitiveness. Closed food cycles require a cross-border approach as relevant stakeholders often operate transnationally. Project outputs include 1) an alpine-wide consolidation of LCA methodology for defined food product categories, 2) an intelligent, digital LCA service system (IDLCASS) that helps users to evaluate decisions regarding resource / CO2 savings, 3) implementation of smart, closed circular food cycle networks, 4) regionally established Circular Food Hubs that acquire, educate and supervise stakeholders to make the impact of the AI system-supported decisions more sustainable, transparent and measurable.

Actual Achievements (EN):

Deviating from the official start date in November 2022, we set our project start date to January 2023: Most of the consortium members were not able to release the related resources so soon after the project award in October 2022. Moreover, one person from SUAS (originator of the idea and main applicant writer of CEFoodCycle) changed to Paris-Lodron-University of Salzburg (PLUS) as of the end of January 2023. To enable further cooperation, PLUS was appointed as strategic observer. In this reporting period 1, SUAS as the lead partner engaged in a number of activities to make sure that all partners develop a common understanding of the project goals: SUAS organized the kick-off meeting in Salzburg in Feb 2023 (7th and 8th) and provided a 2-day platform for exchange, getting to know each other and to ensure a joint envisioning of the project work packages, activities, outputs and deliverables. A steering group and the future internal communication structure was organized and established. We also created a key visual to visualize project objectives and content, supported by external expertise and started first communication activities on the Alpine space website (www.alpine-space.eu/project/cefoodcycle/), institutional websites and social media. Content wise, all partners focused until the end of April 2023 predominantly on work package 1 objectives, i.e. the establishment of one cross-regional CE-based framework based on existing and new LCA food stream data and the creation of Circular Food Hubs. As the field of circular economy in the food context is strongly dynamic, it was necessary to research again intensively in order to identify similar (research) projects and initiatives, best practice examples, as well as possible cooperation partners in the Alpine region. All partners did a first screening and documentation of literature on the current Alpine food system (focus on food waste as resource) in general, and Alpine Space region specifically. In order to start mapping and developing a CE-based framework for the AS region, we began by developing an initial understanding of the food waste stream (directly and indirectly involved actors, institutions committed to food waste, business incubators, non-governmental institutions that distribute food to the socially deprived people, biogas companies, etc.), to identify and to elaborate commonalities and differences. This insight is relevant for defining a network for closed food cycles (D.1.2.1). Also, we started to develop a first understanding about LCA methods and what role digitalization plays to collect and process LCA data along the food value chain. We did an initial desk research and data collection on decision-support systems, including calculators, databases and full-scale modeling LCA platforms that exist in the Alpine Space region. This insight is relevant for the consolidation of existing LCA methodology in defined food streams (D.1.1.1) and the identification of regional LCA parameters in defined food streams (D.1.1.2). At the end of period 1, there is still a lot of work to do in order to get a good overview of the current rapidly developing state of research and practice regarding AI in the food value stream, challenges and difficulties to be expected with the development of the AI driven tool IDLCASS as proposed in WP 2. As all project partners are involved in A 1.1., continuous information exchange started to evolve, required to develop a good understanding of the status quo in the defined regions. As regards the development of Circular Food Hubs, first exchanges between the involved partners were made and a decision as to where to establish the hubs (definition of 5 regions) was made. Start of coordinating activities as regards to Circular Food Hubs, including first discussions on possible structure, regional location and activities. In this reporting period 2, LP1 FHS organised regular interactions to ensure that all partners align in their activities. Next to the meeting in-person in Bled, Solvenia (June 2023), online steering group meetings were held on a regular basis. Additionally, regional Circular Food Hub meetings were organised individually by the partners. Also Activity-related working groups (e.g. IDLCASS – LP1 FHS and PP2 AIE) started. All partners focused predominantly on WP1 objectives: The project definition for “Circular Economy in the Food Sector” was finalised, LCA methodologies were analysed. Extensive desk research included reviewing and analysing relevant literature on circular economy in the food sector, in particular in the Alpine Region, identifying best practice examples, stakeholders and further research projects in all the partner regions. These efforts resulted in a joint whitepaper. Each collaborating project partner continued their ongoing networking endeavors with start-ups, businesses, educational institutions and research organisations. These efforts included conducting interviews, and disseminating project outcomes to integrate them into university courses. On- and offline marketing materials were created and spread among the consortium, which further used them in their communication activities across different channels. Several events were planned or already took place. Furthermore, the partners started working on WP2 objectives. Next to identifying existing platforms, similar projects and key stakeholders the needs of the target group were surveyed. At the end of period 2, there is still a lot of work to do in order to get a good overview of the current rapidly developing state of research and practice regarding AI in the food value stream. As regards the development of Circular Food Hubs, coordinating activities, including first discussions on possible structure, regional location and activities, have made further progress. General During this third reporting period (November 2023 - April 2024), the project has made significant progress. - LP1 FHS has continued to serve as the project's lead partner, organized regular online meetings to effectively disseminate essential information and to streamline ongoing collaboration among all project partners. - In January, LP1 FHS as well as PP4 CCI NCA played active roles in the face-to-face Partner Meeting held in Nice, moderating discussions and meticulously documenting proceedings. This in-person meeting was crucial for fostering a shared understanding of the project's current scope, deliverables, activities, and outcomes. - In terms of communication, the project has maintained a consistent and engaging presence on the institutional website and social media platforms. This continuous outreach effort is vital for keeping stakeholders informed and involved, and for attracting broader public interest in the project's objectives and achievements. Whilst FHS took the lead, all partners actively communicated about the project on various platforms. Progress WP 1 The partners’ endeavors during this period was once more dominated by advancing Work Package 1 goals. - D.1.1.2 + O.1.1 / O.1.2: Under the leadership of PP2 AIE, significant progress has been made on outputs O.1.1 and O.1.2 and Deliverable D.1.1.2. All partners contributed actively to desk research and conducted semi-structured expert interviews with agriculture and retail experts from their regions, establishing a robust empirical foundation. The first draft versions of the whitepaper (O.1.2) and two papers examining regional differences in LCA parameters (O.1.1/D.1.1.2) were completed in project period 3 and the final versions were published on the project website (“resources”). - D.1.2.1: All partners maintained their networking efforts in their respective regions and made sure to document these activities (= list of target organizations reached by project partner by target group). Notably, on March 27, 2024, PP7 LAMORO representatives with the EUSALP initiative, which resulted in a follow-up meeting (on April 18, 2024), involving representatives from EUSALP, LAMORO, PLUS (associated project partner) and FHS to network and explore possible synergies. - D.1.2.3: This deliverable has been successfully completed, with a total of 10 events organized across the Circular Food Hubs. These events included e.g. hackathons, networking gatherings, and cooking classes. Notably, the CEFoodCycle Award emerged as a significant collective effort, receiving 35 submissions from diverse stakeholders throughout the Alpine project region. Given the narrow B2B target group of circular projects in the food sector, this was a very good result. The initiative, coupled with the identification of new regional stakeholders and the refinement of the Food Hub model, underscores the project's commitment to fostering sustainable food streams. The award ceremony was held at the beginning of project period 4. - D.1.2.4: Regarding Education Material, initial actions have been taken, and preliminary desk research has been conducted. - A.1.2: All five Circular Food Hubs continued their activities. Progress WP 2 Regarding Work Package 2, the following relevant updates can be reported, which lay the groundwork for subsequent tool development, roll-out and operation: - D.2.1.1: During this reporting period, ongoing contract discussions regarding the tool’s proliferation after the end of the project took place with VCG.ai, and the agreement was finalized in project period 4. Alignment was also established with JS, internal FHS controllers, and UCB regarding costs and accounting representation. Ongoing requirement analysis with PP2 AIE established the foundation for subsequent development phases, capturing functional and non-functional requirements and defining project constraints. All project partners supported in providing their feedback. - D.2.2.1: Regarding the report on IDLCASS usability, a working group was formed to develop the optimal design for mockup and usability testing, consisting of representatives from PP10 UCB, LP1 FHS and PP9 HM. Progress WP 3 Regarding Work Package 3, the partners focused on the following preparatory work: - PP3 e-zavod provided templates for Activities A.3.1 and A.3.2 as well as D.3.3.2. The project partners reviewed and feedbacked the templates, resulting to subsequent revisions. This preparatory work promises to streamline future activities, ensuring that the project's objectives are met with efficiency and impact. Note: We were not able to include BSC Kranj's certificate for the 3rd period, but for the 2nd (participated in activities & hosted the 2nd partner meeting in Bled.) Significant progress was made in this 4th reporting period from 1 May 2024 to 31 October 2024: 4th Partner meeting and CEFoodCycle award ceremony (D.1.2.3. Hackaton) The 4th partner meeting took place on 21 and 22 May 2024 in Bressanone, Italy, and was organised by IDM with the support of FHS (see upload 03 Partner Meeting Brixen). The highlights included the transnational event "CEFoodCycle Award Ceremony", where the winners from the five pilot regions were presented and honoured (see previous report; D.1.2.3). The event attracted high-ranking guests such as the President of South Tyrol, Arno Kompatscher, and generated positive media attention. Moreover, the IDLCASS mockup (now named "Foodcycle.ai") of the tool was first presented to all project partners at the partner meeting. Finally, two regional best practice examples were visited who demonstrate strong and innovative approaches to the circular economy in the food sector in South Tyrol. Communication activities The project has maintained a consistent and engaging presence across its project website (led by FHS), all project partners continuously share updates on their institutional social media platforms. This ensures effective communication with stakeholders and the broader public. E.g., Eva Lienbacher (FHS) and Christine Vallaster (PLUS) had the privilege of presenting the CEFoodyCycle project at the AlpWeek event. Additionally, media attention has been steadily increasing as the project progresses, particularly with the digital foodcycle.ai tool being tested in mockup trials and nearing completion (see upload "04 Communication", including the Communication Strategy; Overview News CEFoodCycle Website; Overview and examples of the communication per partner). Focus on Circular Food Hubs The five Circular Food Hubs (Salzburg-Bavaria, Alto Adige, Piedmont, France, Slovenia) continued to evolve, refining their stakeholder networks and rolling out local events. Two examples include: 1. The Salzburg-Bavaria hub launched a new Food Hub newsletter (led by PP10 UCB) to keep local stakeholders informed of developments, events, and participation opportunities. 2. PP7 LAMORO in Piedmont further advanced its pilot on insect-based feed cycles, forging new collaborations with farms, municipalities, and processing entities. Advancing Tool Development (Work Package 2) The IDLCASS tool—now rebranded as foodcycle.ai—saw significant progress in terms of data integration, user-interface design, and early usability testing. LP1 FHS led the development and design, collaborating closely with PP2 AIE on the LCA integration and PP10 UCB on the overall development timeline and testing strategy. Multiple mock-up sessions with partners (e.g., PP8 IDM, PP6 AVITEM, PP4 CCI NCA) were carried out to gather feedback from local businesses and public authorities. The mid term review took place in September 2025 (see upload - 06_Presentation Mid Term Review / Communication with JS). The funds allocated based on the third project report were distributed to the partners (see upload “Zahlung Projektrate an Partner.pdf”).

Project outputs: Alpine-wide methodology of LCA indicators in defined food streams(EN)
Establishment of Circular Food Hubs(EN)
User-friendly Intelligent Digital LCA Service System (IDLCASS)(EN)
Pilots of smart, closed food cycles (CEFoodCycles)(EN)
Policy Recommendations(EN)
IDLCASS Network Established(EN)
Website: https://www.fh-salzburg.ac.at/

Thematic information

Green technologies Waste and pollution

Priority: (VI-B_AS_2) Carbon neutral and resource sensitive Alpine region

Priority specific objective: RSO2.6. Promoting the transition to a circular and resource efficient economy

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 075 Support to environmentally-friendly production processes and resource efficiency in SMEs

Partners (11)

Lead Partner: Fachhochschule Salzburg (FHS)

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ATU 44554503

Department: Department of Business & Tourism

Address: Urstein Süd, 5412 Puch bei Hallein, Austria

Department address: Urstein Süd, 5412 Puch bei Hallein, Austria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.fh-salzburg.ac.at

Total budget: EUR 477 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 357 750.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 119 250.00

Trägerverein Umwelttechnologie-Cluster Bayern e.V.

Name: Trägerverein Umwelttechnologie-Cluster Bayern e.V.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: DE264246558

Address: Am Mittleren Moos , 86167 Augsburg, Germany

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.umweltcluster.net

Total budget: EUR 207 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 155 625.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 875.00

Hochschule München

Name: Hochschule München

Department: Faculty of Business Administration

Partner’s ID if not PIC: DE235059152

Address: Lothstraße, 80335 München, Germany

Department address: Am Stadtpark , 81234 München, Germany

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.bwl.hm.edu

Total budget: EUR 225 937.76

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 169 453.32

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 56 484.44

IDM Südtirol Alto Adige

Name: IDM Südtirol Alto Adige

Department: Business Development

Partner’s ID if not PIC: IT02521490215

Address: Pfarrplatz , 39100 Bolzano, Italy

Department address: Pfarrplatz , 39100 Bolzano, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.idm-suedtirol.com

Total budget: EUR 205 250.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 153 937.50

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 312.50

Contractors:

Name: Cusanus Akademie
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT00414870212
Name: Diozesanmuseum Hofburg
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT00731880217
Name: Soncin
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT02811070214
Name: Bad Schörgau KG
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT01509630214
Name: Traubenwirt GmbH
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT00090200213
Name: Moling Helmut
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT02882060219
Name: Silbernagl GmbH
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT02293130213
Name: CIRCULAR FARM DI GIOVANNI
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT06793520484
Name: DIGIPRINT GMBH
VAT registration or tax identification number: 02738460217
Name: ZULUPICTURES KG
VAT registration or tax identification number: 03149980215
Name: SOLOS AQUAPONIX GMBH
VAT registration or tax identification number: 03226150211
Name: TERRA INSTITUTE GMBH
VAT registration or tax identification number: 02688830211
Name: SOELVA SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 02976860219
Name: HGV SERVICE GENOSSENSCHAFT
VAT registration or tax identification number: 00576540215

Langhe Monferrato e Roero - Società Consortile a r.l. Agenzia di sviluppo del territorio

Name: Langhe Monferrato e Roero - Società Consortile a r.l. Agenzia di sviluppo del territorio

Partner’s ID if not PIC: IT02437020049

Address: Via Leopardi, 14100 ASTI, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: http://www.lamoro.it

Total budget: EUR 213 250.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 159 937.50

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 53 312.50

Contractors:

Name: Gruner Baum GMBH Hotel
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT00025900218
Name: Trenitalia
VAT registration or tax identification number: 05403151003
Name: TIZIANA IANDOLINO
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT03120611219
Name: SOCIOGRAPHY
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT04501170247
Name: Università UNISG
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT03079180042
Name: Web-Media srl
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT01690980055

Agence des Villes et Territoires Méditerranéens Durables

Name: Agence des Villes et Territoires Méditerranéens Durables

Department: Cooperation Unit

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 130016504

Address: Boulevard de Dunkerque, CS50603- 13217 Marseille Cedex 02, France

Department address: Boulevard de Dunkerque, CS50603- 13217 Marseille Cedex 02, France

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://avitem.fr/

Total budget: EUR 170 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 127 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 42 500.00

BSC, Busines support centre L.t.d. ,Kranj

Name: BSC, Busines support centre L.t.d. ,Kranj

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI32865597

Address: Cesta Staneta Žagarja , 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: https://www.bsc-kranj.si/

Total budget: EUR 209 750.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 157 312.50

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 52 437.50

Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie Nice Côte d'Azur

Name: Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie Nice Côte d'Azur

Department: Business support and local development Department

Partner’s ID if not PIC: FR64180600017

Address: Boulevard Carabacel, 06000 Nice, France

Department address: Boulevard Carabacel, 06000 Nice, France

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.cote-azur.cci.fr/

Total budget: EUR 225 750.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 169 312.50

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 56 437.50

Contractors:

Name: SARL DDC CONSULTANTS AQUITAINE
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR01508300431
Name: LA TOQUE DU MIDI
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR12514968635
Name: IMPRIMERIE CEF
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR25967801952
Name: ALEXANDRE BENOIST
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR02420371742
Name: MTA CONSULTING
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR95385151170
Name: HOTEL ASTON
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR93798563003
Name: RESTAURANT GAGLIO
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR8952054338000015
Name: SAS EXHIBIT
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR64180600017

E-zavod, zavod za celovite razvojne rešitve

Name: E-zavod, zavod za celovite razvojne rešitve

Department: N/A

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI-46683518

Address: Čučkova ulica, 2250 Ptuj, Slovenia

Department address: Čučkova ulica, 2250 Ptuj, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.ezavod.si

Total budget: EUR 277 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 208 125.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 69 375.00

Österreichisches Ökologie-Institut

Name: Österreichisches Ökologie-Institut

Department: Ressourcenmanagement

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ZVR 711512088

Address: Seidengasse, 1070 Vienna, Austria

Department address: Seidengasse, 1070 Vienna, Austria

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.ecology.at

Total budget: EUR 174 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 130 875.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 43 625.00

Agence des Villes et terriroires mediterraneéns durables

Name: Agence des Villes et terriroires mediterraneéns durables

Department: Cooperation Unit

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 130016504

Address: Boulevard de Dunkerque, CS50603- 13217 Marseille Cedex 02, France

Department address: Boulevard de Dunkerque, CS50603- 13217 Marseille Cedex 02, France

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://avitem.fr/

Total budget: EUR 170 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 127 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 75.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 42 500.00

Partners map

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Circular Economy: Mapping Food Streams and Identifying Potentials to Close the Food Cycle

Project acronym: CEFoodCycle

Project ID: ASP0100021

Project start date: 2022-11-01

Project end date: 2025-10-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Green standards for tourism (https://www.tasteslovenia.si/en/) (EN) | The project »Slovenia – European Region of Gastronomy 2021« is a national intersectoral committment to improve the quality of life. In the field of tourism it encompasses opportunities for sustainable development of gastronomy through close interlinks with the agriculture and promotion of short supply chains of sustainably produced food of highest quality. CEFoodCycle builds on the project's knowledge, experience and network that is necessary for closing regional food cycles. (EN), AlpBioEco (https://www.alpine-space.org/projects/alpbioeco/en/home) (EN) | Three value chains of apples, walnuts, and herbs, and their bioeconomic potential in the Alpine Space are mapped. Business models are developed, showcasing their impact to regional value creation and to innovation in local businesses. CEFoodCycle can use these mappings for blueprinting other product categories and benefits from created knowledge. (EN), Regiokorn (https://www.sbb.it/service/innovationsschalter/projekte/regiokorn) (EN) | Rebuilding and strengthening the network of grain growers, millers and bakers was the main objective of two projects co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF) entitled "Regiokorn". In this way, CEFoodCycle can tap onto best practice methods on how to involve different stakeholders throughout the food value stream (in the product category grain). (EN), FH-Technet (https://ganzundgardesign.com/f-h-t-e-c-h-n-e-t-f-i-l-m) (EN) | The question addressed by ERDF project FH-Technet was on how the so-called ignoble parts of beef can be made more attractive to consumers again. Together with companies, producers and butchers the aim was to make the locally bred cattle "fully utilised" and valued again. CEFoodCycle benefits from in-depth knowledge as regards to the product category "meat" and experiences when it comes to connecting different economic actors along the food value stream. (EN), PITER PAYS SAYGES - Pays Ecogetiques https://www.interreg-alcotra.eu/it/decouvrir-alcotra/les-projets-finances/pays-ecogetiques (EN) | The PAYS-ECOGETIQUES project aims to think of eco-energy in public buildings as a factor for the future prosperity of the Franco-Italian basins. It provides the authorities with an inventory of concrete examples of proven models of energy efficiency and a study on the obstacles to the deployment of energy control policies. CEFoodCycle will benefit from the project's experience in awareness raising and stakeholder engagement based on data collection. (EN), STREFOWA- Strategies to Reduce Food Waste in Central Europe (https://www.interreg-central.eu/Content.Node/STREFOWA.html) (EN) | STREFOWA aims to reduce and manage food waste in Central Europe. Participating countries are Austria, Czech Republic, Italy, Hungary and Poland.
CEFoodCycle benefits from generated knowledge on food waste amounts in the five selected countries as well as the quantities of food waste that is prevented by the currently existing best practices in food waste prevention activities/initiatives. (EN), LIFE FOSTER’S APP (https://www.lifefoster.eu/reduce-waste/) (EN) | This project aimes at measuring food waste in the catering sector. CEFoodCycle uses synergies in the attempt to quantify the food waste that is generated from their work, both for catering activities and restaurants. With the application, it is possible to create a personalized profile for tracking the entire work process, including preparation, from the storage of raw materials to the execution of the recipe and the final dish. CEFoodCycle extensively draws on this knowledge. (EN), South Region, France - Regional spatial planning, sustainable development and equality of territories
(https://www.maregionsud.fr/la-region-en-action/amenagement-et-developpement-durable/lavenir-de-nos-territoires-le-sraddet) (EN) | This strategy sets out the objectives of balance and equality of territories, implementation of infrastructures in rural areas, housing, management space-saving, intermodal and development of transport, energy management and valorization, the fight against climate change, air pollution, climate protection and restoration of biodiversity, prevention and management of waste. CEFoodCycles will build upon the existing knowledge to provide evidence-based guidelines to policy makers. (EN), Métropole Nice Côte d'Azur, Territorial Food Project https://agri-madre.net/project/territorial-food-project/ (EN) | Innovative strategy in agriculture, food, nutrition, sustainable supply and economy adapted to current challenges. The objective is to create a dynamic network of actors around these subjects, in order to connect them and to stir their behaviour around a shared diagnosis, to share the work, successes and questions in order to build a shared vision. CEFoodCycle will benefit from a higher visibility at the local level and the network developped by the Métropole Nice Côte d'Azur. (EN), GREENCYCLE (Interreg Alpine Space) https://www.alpine-space.eu/project/greencycle/ (EN) | E-zavod was partner in GREENCYCLE and will transfer specific knowledge from the fields of circular economy, specifically: experiences from development of toolbox will be used when developing WP2. Experiences with testing (WP3) will be based on stakeholder engagement lessons from GREENCYCLE. Cross-sectoral approach and involvement of end user at development of food circular solutions will be based on the GREENCYCLE experiences and lessons learned. (EN), rebana - Transferpotenziale von regionalen Ansätzen der Bayerischen Bioökonomiestrategie (https://www.umweltcluster.net/de/projekte/rebana.html) (EN) | UCB leads this project, which aims at identifying transfer potentials of regional bio-economy measures to nationwide and (inter-)national levels across sectors and to discuss associated challenges. Synergies will relate to knowing how to close food cycles by redirecting food waste to the bio-economy sector. (EN), Further projects and initiatives include:
„Tagebuch der Lebensmittelabfälle“ (South Tyrol, ITA)
https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.consumer.bz.it%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2019-10%2FTagebuch%2520der%2520Lebensmittelabfaelle.ods&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK
https://www.consumer.bz.it/de/tagebuch-der-lebensmittelabfaelle
https://bia.unibz.it/esploro/outputs/report/Tagebuch-der-Lebensmittelabflle-7-tgige-Erhebung-der-Lebensmittelabflle-in-einigen-Sdtiroler-Haushalten/991005772576501241),
NEST Nachhaltiges Ernährungssystem für Südtirol (eurac, South Tyrol, ITA)
https://www.eurac.edu/de/institutes-centers/institut-fuer-regionalentwicklung/projects/nest
https://news.provinz.bz.it/de/news/nest-auf-dem-weg-zu-nachhaltiger-ernahrung-in-sudtirol),
Gemeinschaftsverpflegung (South Tyrol, ITA) https://www.eurac.edu/de/blogs/agriculture/nachhaltige-gemeinschaftsverpflegung-suedtirol-zukunft
https://umwelt.provinz.bz.it/downloads/10_Atti_convegno_Tagungsband_Mensacorporesano2021.pdf),
Living ICH (Interreg Italy Switzerland)
https://www.eurac.edu/de/institutes-centers/institut-fuer-regionalentwicklung/projects/living-ich
https://www.fondazionesantagata.it/en/heritage-development/unesco-and-sustainable-development/living-ich-cross-border-governance-instruments-for-the-safeguarding-and-valorization-of-the-living-intangible-heritage/
https://intangiblesearch.eu/home_page.php?lingua=inglese).
City Loops - Organic Material and Biowaste
(Horizon2020 - ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability as Lead Partner)
https://cityloops.eu/biowaste/introduction
Strong synergies with the actions of the CCI de PACA Network supported by the Southern Region: Mon projet d'entreprise; Eco-Défis, CEFoodCycle sets the basis for future support actions directly targeting companies on circular economy. (EN) | Synergies with the named initiatives will be sought out and established once the CEFoodCycle project is started. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 2 386 437.76

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 789 828.32

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 75.00%

Co-financing sources:

ERDF: Amount, EUR 1 789 828.32. Co-financing rate, 75.00%.

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Consolidation of existing LCA methodology in defined food streams
Identification of regional LCA parameters in defined food streams
Network for Closed Food Cycles
Transfer Kit for Closed Food Cycles
Implementation of Food Hackathons
Education Material
LCA implementation models for the CEFoodCycle network
IDLCASS
Report on IDLCASS usability
Report on IDLCASS
Report on experimentation in each partner region
Monitoring Reports on tailored CEFoodCycle pilots
Policy recommendations and stakeholder briefs
Networking events for Circular Food Hubs in every pilot regions
Business models

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyAlpineRegion Proposed activities are in line with the goals of EUSALP's Thematic Policy Areas 1-"Economic Growth and Innovation" and 3-“Environment and Energy” with AG6-"Resources". A discussion with leader of AG 6 pointed towards the project's contribution to EUSALP manifesto’s support of “the development of territorial approaches to sustainable food production” not only restricted to “short and fair supply chains” but a complete transition to a CE model. LAMORO contacted, on behalf of the partnership, the referent of the Piedmont Region who participates in the EUSALP AG2 (1st Thematic Policy Area “Economic Growth and Innovation”), presenting the CEFoodCycle proposal and finding consistency between the project and the objectives of the AG2. During the implementation, CEFoodCycle will be presented in detail to the working group to ensure its replicability and sustainability.
EUStrategyAlpineRegion All of the intended results of CEFoodcycle contribute to sub-topic 2 "Future oriented farming and forestry" of AG6. Not only will the established network (R4) and closed food cycles (R3) promote and educated about sustainably produced food products, the LCA data monitoring (R1) and developed platform IDLCASS (R2) will ensure an innovative approach of a Circular Economy transition and thus better resource management and production.
EuropeanGreenDeal The project is in line with the Green Deal’s measures to reinforce policies that encourage mobilising research and fostering innovation, mobilising industry for a clean and circular economy and the “Farm to Fork” strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system. The project emphasizes the 2020 Circular Economy Action Plan’s focus on the potentials of digital technologies for a circular economy and innovative models in co-creation with economic actors, consumers and citizens
EuropeanGreenDeal In line with the objectives of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan, the project will focus on the food sector, which is mentioned as one of the sectors that uses most resources but has high potential for circularity. It will support the EU's new waste policy for waste reduction and contribute to making circularity work for people, regions and cities. By closing the food-cycle, it will tackle the goals of food waste circularity, food value chain optimisation and food-related reusability.
TerritorialAgenda2030 The Territorial Agenda 2030 supports Europe’s transition to a circular economy and the development of place-based industrial symbiosis processes which bring together global competitiveness and local assets. The project picks up the agenda’ s application of an ecosystem-based approach as it will identify and connect the relevant stakeholders of the food resource stream in order to foster an alpine-wide consolidation of LCA data monitoring systems with indicators to measure food saving.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 121 - Area covered by protection measures against climate related natural disasters (other than floods and wildfire), Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO116) Jointly developed solutions: 1.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 098 - SMEs staff completing training for skills for smart specialisation, for industrial transition and entrepreneurship (by type of skill: technical, management, entrepreneurship, green, other), Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Delivered result indicator(s):

(RCR104) Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations: 1.0

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSALP

EUSALP Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSALP Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Alpine Space

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-04-23

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

46 / 46 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

459 / 459 (100%)

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Circular Economy: Mapping Food Streams and Identifying Potentials to Close the Food Cycle

Description

Thematic information

Partners (11)

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Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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