FOODCoST proudly announces participation at European Researchers' Night in Almería

Almería, Spain – On Friday, September 27th, the FOODCoST project joined the European Researchers’ Night, engaging with the public in an exciting evening of science, discovery, and fun. The event, held at various locations across Europe, brought together nearly 600 researchers and thousands of attendees at the Rambla Federico García Lorca of Almería, offering a unique opportunity for the public to interact with cutting-edge research projects.

The University of Almería FOODCoST team was on-site with interactive activities, including games, questionnaires, and a special photocall, all designed to share the project’s objectives and results with the general public. FOODCoST is dedicated to promoting sustainable food systems and exploring the true cost of food production, consumption, and its impact on the environment. The participation in the event helped raise awareness about the project’s significant contributions to understanding these critical issues.

Attendees were invited to take part in quizzes and games that shed light on the complexities of food sustainability, while researchers explained the ongoing work and research goals of the FOODCoST project. The lively and engaging setup sparked meaningful discussions, particularly around the environmental, economic, and social aspects of food production and how the project’s findings could be used to shape more sustainable food systems in Europe.

“This event was a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with the public and share the importance of sustainable food systems” commented Lucas Olmedo and Mónica Duque, UAL FOODCoST team. “We had a fantastic turnout, and it was encouraging to see so much interest in the challenges our food systems face,” said Cynthia Giagnocavo, Director of Chair of Agriculture, Cooperative Studies and Sustainable Development UAL-Coexphal.

The European Researchers’ Night is an annual event that takes place across Europe with the aim of showcasing the diversity of scientific research and its relevance to everyday life.

Almeria’s Mayor, Maria del Mar Vazquez, inaugurated the event, emphasising its alignment with the European Horizon Plan’s goals. “This activity is carried out within the framework of the European Horizon Plan, which this year has three objectives: to comply with the European Green Pact, also to meet the Sustainable Development Goals,” said the Mayor.

University Rector Jose Joaquin Cespedes praised the event’s role in “bringing science closer to everyone,” potentially sparking future scientific vocations.

FOODCoST’s participation was instrumental in bringing the topic of food sustainability to the forefront, encouraging people of all ages to think critically about how their food choices affect the world around them.

The night was a resounding success, leaving attendees more informed about the FOODCoST project and inspired by the ongoing research contributing to a more sustainable future.

Authors: Communication and Dissemination team with the collaboration of the UAL team