A European Project with Concrete Local Impacts
The Fusilli project (Food Urban Systems Innovation Labs for Sustainable Cityscapes), funded by the European Union through Horizon 2020 (grant agreement no. 101000717), concluded in 2024 after four years of innovation in sustainable food. This collaboration between 34 partners from 13 countries enabled 12 European cities, including Differdange, to develop and implement concrete solutions to transform their food systems.
Differdange: Pioneer of Sustainable Food in Luxembourg
At the heart of this European initiative, Differdange distinguished itself as a true food innovation laboratory, initiating several structural projects that now have a national impact.
The First Food Council in the Country
Fusilli enabled the creation of the country’s first food council, a participatory structure bringing together citizens, producers, distributors, and local institutions. This collaborative body develops and oversees a more sustainable food policy adapted to Differdange’s local realities. Its model has become a reference point and inspires other Luxembourg municipalities.
The Kondel Lab: An Exemplary Urban Agricultural Space
The Kondel Lab is a flagship of the Fusilli project in Differdange. This urban agriculture laboratory produces more than three tons of organic vegetables per year, significantly improving residents’ access to quality local food. Beyond its productive function, this place has become a true learning center where citizens and local players can discover the principles of the short food chain and actively participate in the food transition.
Concrete Action to Mobilize the Population
- Educational workshops for kids: Each summer, more than 200 children participate in workshops on harvesting and processing food, acquiring practical knowledge about cultivation, cooking, and responsible consumption.
- Culinary workshops for all: More than twenty sessions have allowed citizens to explore sustainable culinary techniques and better understand the environmental impact of their food choices.
- Public communication: Awareness campaigns have been deployed through several channels to promote the benefits of healthy, local, and environmentally-friendly food.
Innovation in the Fight Against Food Waste
Differdange has also distinguished itself through its innovative approach to fight food waste:
- Smart bins: A pioneering system using artificial intelligence has been installed in a public kitchen to analyze and reduce daily food waste;
- Foodsharing Point: A shared refrigerator has been set up to facilitate the redistribution of food surpluses, creating a positive cycle of solidarity and circular economy.
A Sustainable Legacy for the Future
Although the Fusilli project is officially over, its achievements continue to transform Differdange’s food landscape. The initiatives launched are now anchored in local practices and continue their development, consolidating the city’s position as a Luxembourg reference in sustainable food.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement No. 101000717.
