The workshop brought together representatives from university leaders, academic stakeholders, and EU policy actors to collaboratively design a partnership model aimed at strengthening SFSE across Europe. The event was structured into two key sessions: a plenary featuring expert speakers and an interactive breakout session focused on co-creating the partnership framework.
In the plenary session, Peter Noy from the University of Nottingham introduced the Food Systems Institute—an innovative example of integrative education applying a systemic approach to sustainability within the university environment. Rui Costa from the European Alliance for Subject-Specific and Professional Accreditation and Quality Assurance (EASPA) highlighted the crucial role of accreditation and quality assurance in embedding sustainability principles within higher education, despite challenges posed by a heterogeneous accreditation landscape. Hans-Jörg Lutzeyer from the European Commission’s DG Research & Innovation provided a policy overview through the FOOD2030 framework, sharing insights into EU-funded projects and initiatives supporting sustainable food system transitions through research and education.
The breakout session engaged participants in active discussions on practical strategies for university collaboration to advance the SFSE. Suggestions included establishing dedicated Food System Offices to coordinate cross-disciplinary efforts, creating a community of practice to share best practices and successful models, and gaining stronger support from the European Commission and accreditation bodies to develop frameworks for SFSE standards.
Participants also discussed the development of a European Sustainability Charter intended as a guiding document for the partnership. There was broad support for a shared Sustainability Charter across Europe, while maintaining flexibility to respect diverse local contexts. Regarding the Code of Conduct, it was suggested that universities should retain sufficient autonomy to adapt within their own context.
This workshop represented an important first step towards building a university network dedicated to SFSE. By fostering strong collaboration and shared standards, the network aims to strengthen education that equips future professionals to tackle the complexities of sustainable food systems.
About FOODPathS
FOODPathS is a 3.5-year Horizon Europe project funded by the European Commission. Its main aim is to create the right conditions for the European Partnership for Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) for People, Planet & Climate, officially launched in 2025. This Partnership brings together all parts of the food system—from research and education to businesses, policymakers, and civil society—to support a shift towards more sustainable food systems across Europe. FOODPathS plays a key role in laying the foundation for how the Partnership will function.
Under the FOODPathS project framework, EFFoST is taking the lead in establishing a European branded network of universities, a key element of the broader FOODPathS Partnership. This network aims to connect universities integrating sustainable food systems into education, research, and campus operations. It is designed to foster collaboration and mutual learning across institutions, while providing a dynamic platform for dialogue between universities, policymakers, and regional stakeholders. Through this exchange, the network will support the co-development of effective solutions for Sustainable Food System Education (SFSE) and contribute to driving the sustainable transformation of food systems across Europe.
Do you want to learn more or get involved? Reach out to us at info@effost.org for the university partnership or info@foodpaths.eu for other questions related to FOODPathS.