Invitation to CIBUS Project

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:02:00 BST

The CIBUS Project, led by the Bulgarian Association of Municipal Environmental Experts (BAMEE), is an innovative Interreg initiative aimed at addressing the pressing issue of food loss and waste across Europe. This project seeks to create sustainable solutions that not only reduce food waste but also promote a circular economy and enhance food security.

Aims

The primary aims of the CIBUS Project are:

1. Reduction of Food Waste: Implement strategies to significantly cut down food waste across all stages of the food supply chain.
2. Promotion of a Circular Economy: Foster practices that convert food waste into valuable resources, thereby supporting sustainable economic growth.
3. Enhancement of Food Security: Ensure that surplus food is redirected to those in need, thus improving food security within the community.
4. Community Engagement: Increase awareness and involvement among local stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and policymakers.

European Partners

The CIBUS Project is a collaborative effort involving several European partners, including:

• Nicosia Development Agency (ANEL), Cyprus
• Alto Minho Intermunicipal Community, Portugal
• Vejle Municipality, Denmark
• Maramures County Council, Romania
• Regional Council of Häme, Finland
• City of Liège, Belgium
• Galway County Council, Ireland

These partnerships strengthen the project's ability to leverage diverse expertise and resources across Europe to tackle food waste effectively.

Methodology

The CIBUS Project employs a multi-faceted approach to achieve its objectives:

1. Data Collection and Analysis: Utilizing comprehensive data analysis to understand the sources and causes of food waste. This involves collaboration with local businesses, farms, and households to gather accurate data.
2. Stakeholder Collaboration: Building robust networks among stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, non-profits, and community groups, to create a unified effort against food waste.
3. Innovative Solutions: Promoting and implementing innovative technologies and practices that reduce food waste, such as improved food storage techniques, waste tracking systems, and food redistribution platforms.
4. Policy Advocacy: Working closely with policymakers to develop and implement regulations and incentives that support food waste reduction and circular economy principles.
5. Educational Campaigns: Conducting educational initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of food waste reduction and ways individuals can contribute to the cause.

Impact

The anticipated impact of the CIBUS Project includes:

• A measurable reduction in food waste within participating regions.
• Increased efficiency and sustainability of the local food supply chain.
• Enhanced food security for vulnerable populations.
• Strengthened community engagement and collaboration towards sustainable practices.

Get Involved

We invite all members of the community to join us in this crucial initiative. Whether you are a business owner, a farmer, a policymaker, or a concerned citizen, your participation is vital for the success of the CIBUS Project. Together, we can create a more sustainable and food-secure future for Europe. If you would like to be an active stakeholder please follow this link and fill out the short expression of interest.

For more information, updates, and other ways to get involved, please visit our CIBUS Project webpage.