PRECIOUS: Turning Data into Action, and Action into Change

Led by the University of Deusto, PRECIOUS unites a transdisciplinary alliance of 20 organisations, including EIT Food, spanning 11 EU countries to address one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: food loss and waste (FLW).

2024

External EIT Food Project

Tackling Food Loss and Waste to Protect Our Planet

Imagine a world where food is not wasted, biodiversity flourishes, and sustainability lies at the heart of our food systems. This vision underpins PRECIOUS (Preventing Environmental Impacts of Food Loss and Waste with a Holistic Approach), a pioneering four-year project funded by the European Union with €4 million.

Bridging the Data Gap for Systemic Change

FLW represents more than wasted food; it signifies squandered resources—water, energy, and land—while contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. PRECIOUS seeks to bridge crucial data gaps by creating an open-access evaluation framework. This innovative tool will assess the environmental, social, and economic impacts of FLW reduction strategies across Europe. From lifecycle assessments to advanced modelling systems, the project leverages science, technology, and stakeholder collaboration to drive meaningful change

Local Actions for Global Impact

PRECIOUS integrates real-world use cases in Spain and Greece alongside replication activities in Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania. These initiatives will co-create and implement FLW reduction practices, informed by insights from industry experts and local communities. The findings will shape EU-wide policies and inspire systemic transformation in food consumption and disposal.

Championing Biodiversity and Sustainability

PRECIOUS is not solely about reducing FLW; it is also dedicated to preserving biodiversity and promoting a circular economy. By focusing on the interconnection between food systems, biodiversity, and climate change, the project will help chart net-zero pathways and foster a fair and sustainable food future.

EIT Food's Role

EIT Food plays a key role in the PRECIOUS project, focusing on education, innovation, and engagement:

Education and Awareness: Leads youth-focused educational campaigns, such as workshops in Spain and Greece, teaching zero waste practices through activities like meal planning and food repurposing.
Consumer Research: Coordinates online panels to assess consumer acceptance of upcycled products and studies social impacts of food waste interventions.
Startup Support: Integrates FLW themes into its acceleration programmes, linking startups to innovation ecosystems.
Stakeholder Engagement: Co-hosts workshops and webinars to foster collaboration and share knowledge across sectors.
Dissemination: Supports creating and sharing educational materials, infographics, and reports for policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.