On 22 January 2025, the XVIII Alpine Conference has concluded in Brdo, Slovenia. At the event, Slovenia officially handed over the two-year presidency under the slogan “Quality life in the Alps for all” of the Alpine Convention to Italy. The Alpine Convention presents as an international treaty a bridge between countries in the Alpine region (Austria, France, Germany, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Slovenia, Switzerland) and the European Union, aiming to promote sustainable development in the Alpine region. As part of the Alpine space in Slovenia, the Gorenjska region is strongly aware of local value chains, local and seasonal products, a rich culture of food heritage, and traditional mountain agriculture. Based on a long-term acquaintance with the local population and the main actors in food sector, the Regional Development Agency of Gorenjska – BSC Kranj Alpine believes Slovenian farmers are well-positioned to contribute to a model region for organic farming and, furthermore, zero-waste closed food cycles. What new ideas will they develop as part of the CEFoodCycle project? Stay tuned!
On 27 January 2025, the Council of the European Union held an exchange of views on two legislative proposals to improve the situation of farmers in the chain. The proposals aim to strengthen the position of farmers and restore trust between actors in the agri-food supply chain. The importance of considering the Member States’ specific needs was underlined. For example, Slovenia strongly believes it is crucial to allow for the simultaneous recognition of cooperatives as producer organisations for different sectors. Agricultural cooperatives can play an important role in reducing food waste by effectively managing agricultural products’ production, processing and distribution and promoting sustainable practices among their members. In the Gorenjska region alone, more than 10 cooperatives are forming a strong network, connecting producers and consumers in one place. The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2025 the International Year of Cooperatives. The slogan of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, “Cooperatives Build a Better World”, highlights the key role of cooperatives in advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
