Food sustainability for all with OpenDot

CUES project partner OpenDot, is particularly active in engaging consumers in the transition toward sustainable food systems. Their efforts focus on raising awareness around food safety, labelling, circular food systems, and the impact of individual dietary choices. OpenDot began its work locally with a digital intervention designed to democratise access to information on food sustainability. Field research was launched in Milan, starting at the Acquabella community centre. Two focus groups involving participants over the age of 65 explored their knowledge, habits, and challenges related to making sustainable food choices. The sessions provided a valuable exchange—rich with personal stories, reflections, and questions—that will inform the design of more inclusive and accessible communication tools.

As part of Work Package 4 (WP4), OpenDot is developing open-source educational tools for primary school children in Italy, specifically in the Val di Lana area, with a focus on students from migrant backgrounds or minority communities. The initiative addresses unequal access to information on sustainability and the limited public awareness of the environmental, social, and cultural dimensions of food. The goal is to create an engaging educational experience that introduces the concept of healthy and sustainable food, exploring topics such as seasonality, local sourcing, plant-based diets, and organic or sustainable production methods. At the same time, the program aims to celebrate diverse food traditions and cultures, fostering intercultural dialogue from an early age.