Final event (2/2): Round table

From Vision to Action: Key Shifts in Waste Reduction and Collaboration

The final event was panel discussion with five panelists: Anna George (Zero Waste Project, European project of 12 million euros and 46 countries), Karoliina Hannula (Antell), and Satu Hulkkonen (FoodData Finland), Timo Lehto (Jamix Oy), Teemu Jutila (Lounais-Suomen Jätehuolto Oy). Moderator of this panel was professor Anu Hopia (University of Turku).

In this panel discussion, experts from diverse fields came together to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time: waste reduction. Specifically, the most important shifts in waste reduction that would help us move from vision to action most effectively was discussed. The conversation spanned multiple dimensions—from kitchen operations and municipal waste realities to data ecosystems, technological innovation, and large-scale EU-level projects

One of the most compelling parts of the discussion was the focus on making data and tools related to waste reduction useful in everyday operations. Panelists shared simple, real-world examples of how these tools can be integrated into daily workflows—such as tracking food inventory to prevent spoilage or using analytics to optimize procurement. The message is clear: data is only powerful when it drives action.

The conversation concluded with reflections on partnerships and collaborations. Overall, the diversity of expertise on the panel made the discussion rich and insightful. Each perspective added depth to the conversation, reinforcing that waste reduction is not a single-sector challenge—it’s a collective mission. Moving from vision to action requires innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to embedding sustainability into everyday decisions.