Consortium Meeting of the Horizon Europe Project FoodCoP: Advancing Collaboration and Innovation in the Circular Bioeconomy
On September 23–24, 2025, the Horizon Europe project FoodCoP convened its partners from across Europe at the RDI Hub for two highly productive days of exchange. The meeting focused on advancing the project’s mission by sharing progress updates, strengthening collaboration, and exploring innovative pathways for sustainable transformation through the circular bioeconomy.
A particular highlight was the contribution of Ms. Lydia Papadaki (Sustainable Development Unit – ATHENA RC), under the leadership of Professor Dr. Phoebe Koundouri (ATHENA RC, Principal Investigator). Ms. Papadaki presented the results of the Startup Villages Best Practices Report (Task 3.3) and introduced participants to the impact assessment findings and preliminary conclusions (Task 8.3). These contributions demonstrated how FoodCoP is enhancing capacity and competence in supporting Startup Villages across Europe.
As part of the programme, participants visited the Circular Bioeconomy Research Group (CIRCBIO) at Munster Technological University and Scotia Village. These visits offered first-hand insights into cutting-edge research, local innovation ecosystems, and community-driven sustainability initiatives in rural Ireland.
The consortium extends its sincere gratitude to all participants, and in particular to the RDI Hub for their generous hospitality and warm welcome in Kerry.