Project Overview
SustainaKit is an Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnership in Vocational Education and Training (VET) that aims to strengthen the role of sustainability in culinary education across Europe. The project addresses one of the key challenges of the food and hospitality sector today: how to train future professionals to adopt more responsible, efficient, and sustainable practices in their everyday work.
The impact of the food sector on the environment, society, and the economy is significant, particularly in terms of resource consumption and food waste. For this reason, sustainability can no longer be considered an optional topic in vocational training, but a core competence for students and educators in culinary and hospitality pathways. SustainaKit responds to this need by supporting VET schools, teachers, and learners in integrating sustainability principles into both teaching and practical training activities.
The project brings together partners with expertise in vocational education, culinary training, innovation, entrepreneurship, and international cooperation. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that the project outcomes are pedagogically sound, practically applicable, and aligned with the real needs of VET providers and learners.
Project Results and Outputs
SustainaKit will develop a set of concrete and accessible educational resources designed to support the transition towards more sustainable culinary education. In particular, the project will produce:
· A Good Practices Handbook, providing a solid theoretical and methodological framework on sustainability in the culinary sector, with a focus on responsible consumption, food waste reduction, efficient use of resources, and the promotion of KM0 and seasonal products.
· A SustainaKit Toolkit for learners and educators, offering practical activities, exercises, and learning scenarios to apply sustainability principles directly in the classroom and in training kitchens.
· A Digital Action Plan and online platform, ensuring that all project results are easily accessible and supporting VET schools in integrating these resources into their daily teaching and learning practices.
All project outputs will be designed to be practical, user-friendly, and transferable, allowing them to be used in different national contexts and educational settings.
Our Goals
SustainaKit aims to support VET students and teachers in integrating sustainability into culinary education and everyday practice.
Our main goals are to:
· Increase awareness of sustainability within VET classrooms for both students and teachers.
· Encourage the use of KM0 products, highlighting the value of local and seasonal ingredients.
· Provide practical educational tools that make it easier to apply sustainability principles in culinary training.
· Promote the integration of digital tools to modernise teaching practices.
· Reduce food waste and support more responsible consumption habits.
A Green Partnership
SustainaKit is implemented through the collaboration of seven European organisations, coordinated by Topcoach s.r.o. (Slovakia). Together, we work to develop innovative teaching models for greener and more sustainable gastronomy, supporting schools, trainers, and future culinary professionals in adopting eco-friendly, modern, and responsible practices.
Topcoach is specialised in adult education and professional training. The organisation develops innovative learning tools and training methodologies and has extensive experience coordinating and implementing Erasmus+ projects and international educational initiatives.
Partners for Skills Development is an accredited vocational training centre based in Cyprus. The organisation develops innovative education programmes and participates in European projects promoting digital skills, sustainability, and lifelong learning.
Lula Consulting is an Italian consultancy supporting schools and organisations in Erasmus+ projects and international mobility programmes. The organisation is also actively involved in KA2 cooperation partnerships, providing expertise in project management, digital tools, communication, and dissemination.
Mediterráneo Culinary Center is a vocational training school in Valencia specialised in gastronomy, cooking, dietetics, and nutrition. The centre promotes sustainable culinary practices and actively participates in international cooperation and Erasmus+ education projects.
Neotalentway is a Spanish organisation specialised in training, talent development, and digital learning solutions. It designs educational programmes and supports international cooperation projects focused on innovation, skills development, and modern learning approaches.
The Academy of Entrepreneurship (AKEP) is a non-profit organisation based in Athens promoting entrepreneurship education and employability skills. It develops non-formal learning programmes and supports innovation, youth empowerment, and entrepreneurship initiatives across Europe.
ENGIM Veneto is a non-profit vocational training foundation operating several training centres in the Veneto region. The organisation provides vocational education, professional training, and career guidance while collaborating closely with companies and local institutions.
