Starting from current best practices and key success factors observed and analysed in innovative value chains and the state of the art in technological and non-technological approaches, CO-FRESH proposes to develop techniques, tools and insights for the re-design of agri-food value chains. Through collaborative and systemic approaches, the tools and formats will be applied in 7 pilot cases representing diverse fruit and vegetables agri-food value chains (including protein crops for food and feed) across Europe. CO-FRESH will use the Intervention Research approach to study models of collective innovation action within and across organisations. The CO-FRESH consortium brings together key actors from pilot agri-food value chains; actors’ associations (farmers, food producers, cooperatives, consumers); experts in technological (including digital) solutions and non-technological (including social, organizational, and institutional) solutions; as well as experts in environmental, social, economic sustainability, and in consumer’s acceptance. The main objective of CO-FRESH is to (re)design and pilot innovative systemic approaches to agri-food value chains to scale up this innovation at European level. These innovative approaches will improve economic, social and environmental performance/efficiency of these value chains, through smart integration of technological, social, organisational, managerial and institutional innovations; all of which serve to make them more sustainable.

GREEN-LOOP addresses novel bio-based materials solutions, tackling the problem from a circular-business thinking perspective, which will enable overcoming the barrier for new manufacture tools, energy efficiency improvements and sustainable value chains. The main goal of GREEN-LOOP is to design and optimise 3 innovative bio-based materials and components for industrial sectors: construction, packaging, food, beverage, appliances and tooling. 1) multifunctional panels rubber panels with fire resistance and vibrational applications, 2) bioplastic bottle closures for oil and fruit juice, 3) wood composites bearings for plastic injection machines. The value chain of each product is optimised from raw material source to End Of Life of products, ensuring the circular economy. All manufacturing lines are retrofitted to adapt to the new enhanced bio compoundings using Artificial Intelligence. Ultrasound improvement is included in the lignin production and rubber manufacture, and Microwaves improve preheating of bioplastic on injection moulding and curing of wood composites. The whole process is monitored and presented in a virtual platform that includes KPI evaluation, business optimization in real-time, training (webinars), and social engagement