SERN Thematic wall
The SERN Thematic Wall (STW) are thematic information sessions aimed at giving shape and substance to the priorities and activities foreseen by the SERN strategy.
Through this flexible “wall,” we will put in focus a specific theme linked to our strategy for a set period (2/3 months).
During this period, the Secretariat will devise a series of targeted events and activities that are directly related to the chosen priority or theme.
5th SERN Thematic wall
Sustainable places and local food
For the current cycle, the SERN Thematic Wall focuses on Sustainable Places and Local Food as a key theme for cooperation among members. The topic was selected by the SERN Executive Board in response to current territorial, social and environmental challenges and to the growing role of food systems in local development, public services and community wellbeing.
The cycle is implemented through a series of online seminars taking place between March and May 2026, providing opportunities for exchange, learning and project development among municipalities and local stakeholders.
Across Europe, local communities are facing challenges related to rural depopulation, food security, climate change and the erosion of traditional knowledge, leading to the gradual loss of local food production practices and cultural heritage.
At the same time, local food systems are under pressure from global supply chains, rising production costs and regulatory frameworks that often disadvantage small and medium-sized producers. Public procurement procedures frequently limit municipalities’ ability to prioritise local, organic and sustainable products. Differences also emerge between countries, affecting how local identity is recognised and how cooperation develops at international level. In this context, strengthening sustainable local food systems represents a key lever for territorial resilience, social cohesion, environmental sustainability and economic development. Food also plays a central role in education, community building, tourism and place-making.
Strengthening local food systems in Sweden and Italy
26 MARCH 2026 | 14.30 | Online
The first seminar will focus on how municipalities in Sweden and Italy strengthen local food systems through public policies, territorial planning and public services. It will explore how local food is integrated into rural development and sustainability strategies and how these frameworks are translated into concrete actions at municipal level.
Special attention will be given to the organisation of local supply chains for public services, in particular school and social catering, and to cooperation models between municipalities, producers and support organisations. The seminar will also address territorial resilience and food security, highlighting how local systems can reduce dependency on global supply chains and ensure continuity of supply.
SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT AND LOCAL FOOD
13 APRIL 2026 | 14.30 | Online
The second seminar will focus on how public procurement can support sustainable and high-quality food in public services within existing European and national regulations. It will explore both the opportunities and the limits faced by municipalities when designing food-related tenders.
Particular attention will be given to practical solutions that allow public authorities to promote environmental and social standards and at the same time facilitate the participation of small and medium-sized suppliers, especially in school and social catering.
FOOD, EDUCATION AND LOCAL IDENTITY
29 APRIL 2026 | 14.30 | Online
The third seminar will focus on the role of schools, educational services and community initiatives in promoting food education, healthy lifestyles and awareness of local food cultures. It will explore how municipalities integrate food-related topics into educational programmes and community activities, linking nutrition sustainability and citizenship.
Attention will be given to the role of school catering and extracurricular activities as learning environments, and to cooperation between schools, families, local producers and social services. The seminar will also address how food-related initiatives can strengthen local identity, intergenerational dialogue and community engagement, especially in rural and peripheral areas.
FOOD, TOURISM AND PLACE-BASED DEVELOPMENT
14 MAY 2026 | 14.30 | Online
The fourth seminar will focus on the role of local food systems in strengthening territorial resilience and supporting sustainable and regenerative tourism models. Recent climatic, logistical and economic shocks have exposed the vulnerability of food systems that rely heavily on global supply chains, while, at the same time, tourism is increasingly shifting towards more sustainable and authentic experiences based on local identity.
The seminar will explore how municipalities, tourism actors and local producers can work together to develop diversified and reliable local supply chains that respond both to residents’ needs and to growing demand from visitors for traceable, high-quality and safe food products. Particular attention will be given to the role of tourism as a stable and high-value market that can support small producers and reinforce local economies.
The discussion will also address emerging approaches to regenerative tourism and regenerative food production, focusing on practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, circular resource use and long-term environmental sustainability. Food-related experiences, storytelling and community-based initiatives will be analysed as tools to connect visitors with local values and landscapes, encouraging active participation in territorial regeneration.
