EU Food Loss and Waste Prevention Hub

Empowering households for circular change

In collaboration with scientific experts and local partners, CARE combines academic research with real-world solutions to help households make meaningful changes. "With CARE, we are empowering households to rethink their daily habits and adopt circular solutions that make a real difference," says Elina Närvänen of Tampere University, Project Coordinator of the 11-strong consortium. "By focusing on food and clothing – two areas with a significant environmental footprint – we can help families reduce waste, save money, and live more sustainable and healthier lives, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being.”

Making circular living accessible and rewarding
Over the approximately 18-month long circular pilots, participants will engage in creative activities and challenges that aim to make sustainable living both practical and enjoyable. These activities will provide strategies for minimising food waste or teach households how to extend the lifespan of their clothes. 

Beyond practical benefits, participating households will receive free expert advice and gain personalised insights. Regular community meet-ups and online discussions will allow households to share their experiences, learn from each other, and become part of a growing European community.

Strong local partners ensuring regional impact
The CARE circular pilots will take place in five regions across Europe: Tampere (Finland), Asker (Norway), Gothenburg (Sweden), Lääne-Harju (Estonia) and Berlin (Germany). Starting in summer 2025, households from these regions are invited to register now to secure their place in the pilots. Participation is free, but places are limited.

Scaling circular solutions: Policy and industry changes
CARE aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 and the EU Circular Economy Action Plan, demonstrating how circular strategies can be successfully implemented at the household level. As part of the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI), CARE supports local and regional circular economy strategies that can serve as models for sustainable consumption across Europe.

Insights gained from these pilots will provide valuable data for policymakers, cities, and businesses looking to develop replicable and scalable circular economy models.