The University of Pollenzo has developed a Circular Business Model that has been applied to Orti Generali and Locanda nel Parco (two social restaurants). This model aims to be a good practice that can sensitize other food-related businesses to adopt circular solutions. This initiative aligns with Torino’s call for funding SMEs in circular economy projects, leading to seven organizations implementing new circular actions. Additionally, through the SME4GREEN project, the city of Torino has signed a Green Deal with 27 organizations focused on Circular Economy and Food. The University of Gastronomic Science has specific expertise in circular economy and food. This expertise was utilized by the city, along with Orti Generali and Locanda nel Parco to disseminate good practices. The main challenge is integrating circular practices into all SMEs.
The project’s innovative strength lies in its holistic approach which has the involvement of about 100 students from the Gastronomic Science Course (Bachelor Degree) for the elaboration of circular proposals applicable to Living Lab contexts that focused around the theme of food (Orti Generali and Locanda nel Parco) .
This approach has the potential to be applied to all SMEs.
