ZeroW has made significant progress in reducing Food Loss and Waste (FLW) by advancing systemic innovations and establishing a strong foundation. In its first 18 months, the project launched nine Systemic Innovations Living Labs (SILLs), each focused on planning activities and implementing demonstrator solutions:
- SILL1 FLW monitoring & assessment
- SILL2 Innovative sustainable and smart fresh food packaging
- SILL3 Wasteless greenhouse solutions
- SILL4 Mobile food valorisation as a service
- SILL5 Ugly food identification, shelf-life assessment & valorisation
- SILL6 FLW reduction through data-driven production process optimisation
- SILL7 LW reduction through efficient food banks networks
- SILL8 Algae-based valorisation for retail FW
- SILL9 Informing and nudging consumers
To support these efforts, the Systemic Innovation Readiness Level (SIRL) tool and an Impact Assessment Methodology were developed. The project introduced Big Data Infrastructural Services (BDIS) and the 0FLW Data Space to enable AI-driven analytics. A market analysis of innovation clusters was conducted, alongside engagement in near-zero FLW pathways with key stakeholders.
Building on this foundation, during M19-36, the SILLs moved into the demonstration phase, showing strong potential in reducing FLW and greenhouse gas emissions. Data collection, evaluation, and refinements reinforced their expected impact.
The project enhanced BDIS, developed multiple AI applications, and applied the 0FLW Data Space prototype kit in collaboration with WP5, WP6, WP7, and the SILLs to refine governance and business models. Extensive assessments, helped guide scaling strategies.
ZeroW actively engaged stakeholders through workshops, capacity-building activities, and investment strategies. Policy contributions were strengthened with near-zero FLW transition pathways and modelling studies assessing supply chain interventions. The consortium collaborated with EU initiatives such as GD-SO Food Working Group, SISTERS, FOLOU, and WASTELESS projects, contributing to policy briefs and joint events.
Dissemination expanded with explanatory videos, the “ZeroW Hero” campaign, and targeted engagement strategies. The project exceeded IPR and knowledge transfer expectations, securing five patents applications and documenting 73 Key Exploitable Results (KERs), covering commercial applications, research outputs, and best practices.
With demonstrators operational, ongoing evaluation, and scaling strategies in development, ZeroW remains on track to deliver impactful FLW reduction solutions, policy recommendations, and long-term sustainability.
