On Thursday, February 15th, 2024, stakeholders gathered at the Cultural Centre “Theodoros Angelopoulos” in the Municipality of Moschato-Tavros to celebrate the achievements of the ADVANCE (“Advancing MuNicipal Circular Economy”) Project’s Results Multiplier Event. The presentation, titled ” Reducing food waste production in municipalities and HORECA SMEs,” brought together over 60 participants for a day of insightful discussions and strategic planning. Distinguished speakers, including industry experts and municipal leaders, shared their perspectives on tackling food waste across the supply chain. From Mr. Antonis Mavropoulos, Founder & CEO of D-Waste, who analyzed global food loss to Ms. Nasia Barka, Head of Food Waste Prevention at the Municipality of Halandri, who presented research outcomes and municipal actions, each presentation shed light on innovative approaches to waste reduction. Furthermore, Ms. Dia Chorafa, Project Manager of the Organization “BOROUME,” highlighted holistic strategies, while Mr. Vangelis Terzis, Scientific Officer at D-WASTE, emphasized the importance of cooperation between municipalities and HoReCa businesses. The event concluded with Mr. Dimitris Damigos, Professor at NTUA and the leader of the ADVANCE project, sharing the methodology and results of the ADVANCE Project, underscoring the importance of education and collaboration in achieving ambitious targets on food waste. Throughout the event, engaging discussions and contributions from attendees showcased the collective dedication to a greener, more sustainable future. As we reflect on the challenges faced and the progress made, we look forward to continual collaboration and innovation in our shared mission to reduce food waste and promote circular solutions.

The results of the ADVANCE Project presented were the following:

1. Baseline assessment (PR1) of the current waste food waste management practices in Municipalities and HORECA SMEs.
2. Gap Analysis methodology and tool (PR2) between current and required, according to the EU targets, waste management practices relevant to food waste.
3. Development of Roadmaps (PR3) – The Roadmaps developed in two different types, one for Municipalities and one for HORECA SMEs.
4. ADVANCE Course (PR4) – A training material broken down into certain learning modules for waste management adapted to the needs of target groups.
5. Open Education Resource (OER) (PR5) – An Online Platform, which includes and host interactively all the above.