New European project focuses on circular food chains

Regenerative agriculture, shorter food supply chains, and reusable packaging are receiving a boost from Europe. The European Commission has awarded €9.6 million to CIRCULANDIA. This new Horizon Europe project aims to support the development and scaling of circular food systems. Running from 2026 to 2030, the project brings together 35 organisations from twelve European countries.

Circular approach to food production

CIRCULANDIA aims to accelerate the transition from a linear to a circular food system. Its focus is on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening soils and ecosystems, shortening food supply chains, and cutting packaging waste.

According to project coordinator Anna Tenhunen-Lunkka of CLIC Innovation, the project's strength lies in combining different parts of the food chain.

“What makes CIRCULANDIA unique is that it brings together regenerative agriculture, local food systems, and reusable packaging in one integrated approach. We want not only to improve individual solutions, but to transform the entire food system into a circular and climate-neutral model.”

Real-world testing in European cities and regions

The approach will first be tested in pilot cities. These will be followed by replication cities, where solutions will be adapted and implemented. The results will then be shared more widely through so-called multiplier regions, which are preparing for broader adoption. The project includes a range of activities. For example, work is underway on systems for remotely monitoring carbon storage. Municipal agricultural land will also receive support in transitioning to regenerative farming practices.

In addition, CIRCULANDIA focuses on making better use of local, underutilised biological resource streams. Demonstration projects related to urban agriculture will also be carried out. Reusable packaging forms another important part of the project. CIRCULANDIA is testing a system for reusable packaging and examining how consumers can be encouraged to make greater use of reusable takeaway packaging.

Dutch participant

One of the consortium partners is the Dutch Fair Resource Foundation. The consortium also includes cities, regions, companies, research institutions, clusters, and civil society organisations from across Europe. The project supports the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative.

Flandersfood.com