In2Local

Project Duration: December 1, 2023 – November 30, 2025 (24 months)

Project Objectives: The objective of the In2Local project is to create a supportive environment for the implementation of sustainable food production models in Pomurje and Vas County, based on the principles of the circular economy. Four partner organizations connected through the In2Local project will provide this supportive environment. These organizations already have experience in the field of the circular economy and maintain ongoing contacts with relevant stakeholders.

The above-average level and intensity of the food production and processing sector in Pomurje and Vas County present both a challenge and an opportunity to introduce innovative approaches and pilot measures for circular production models in the food sector. This will improve the utilization of primary raw materials, promote the transition to a circular economy, and increase consumer awareness and sustainable habits. A key challenge is the low level of competencies and inadequate knowledge of stakeholders regarding the principles of the circular economy in both regions, due to the lack of an appropriate supportive environment.

The supportive environment within the In2Local project aims to increase awareness and competencies in agriculture, local production, and food processing, as well as the transfer of knowledge, technologies, and best practices between the two regions. The collaboration established through the project to create a supportive environment will remain active even after the project concludes. Best practices will be identified in both regions, forming the basis for tailored training within the mobile living laboratory and the implementation of pilot activities. This approach will allow for individual solutions for stakeholders, who will implement changes in their food production and processing processes with expert support. Establishing such a supportive environment will be entirely new – in content, approach, and organization.

Within the In2Local project, a mobile living laboratory for the circular economy will be established, offering individual training to food producers and processors in Pomurje and Vas County. The project team will visit 5 local food producers in both regions, identify best practices in Slovenia and Hungary, and present them to stakeholders through innovative communication activities. These practices and tailored training will form the basis for a common supportive environment for the circular economy, which will be established in the project and maintained after its conclusion. The project will also include the identification of material flows in Pomurje and Vas County and the preparation of guidelines for implementing circular economic practices. In pilot activities, the principles of the circular economy will enable better food utilization, fewer losses, and the strengthening of the local producers' network.

Project Partners:

• Vas County Government Office
• Development Centre Murska Sobota
• Pannon Novum West-transdanubian Regional Innovation Non-profit Ltd.
• Centre for the Development of a Sustainable Society z.o.o.