Main initiative
Background & Context
Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. The urgent transition towards circular economy models - replacing linear "take-make-dispose" systems - is now embedded in EU law and policy, from the European Green Deal and the EU Circular Economy Action Plan 2020 to the newly enacted CSRD Directive (2022/2464) and the forthcoming ISO/FDIS 59020 standard. Among all economic sectors, fashion/textile and agri-food stand out for their dual relevance: they form the backbone of the partner countries' economies while ranking among the biggest contributors to CO₂ emissions, waste generation and use of polluting substances in the EU. Both sectors also face economic pressures — the fast-fashion disruption and growing unattractiveness of agriculture as a career — creating an urgent need for a new generation of circular, innovation-driven entrepreneurs.
Objectives
Our solutions
Project
Methodology & Innovation
At the heart of CORE’s innovation is the integration of a multicriteria analysis approach (cradle-to-cradle methodology) with a collaborative AI algorithm. The DSS moves beyond the traditional Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) by incorporating qualitative and social dimensions alongside quantitative environmental indicators, aligned with the five circular strategies identified by the OECD (2019) Business Models for the Circular Economy framework. The project adopts Agile methodology for DSS development, ensuring iterative testing and continuous improvement based on real user feedback. All outputs are developed as Open Educational Resources (OERs) and comply with EU AI ethics recommendations.
Project
Sectors in Focus
Fashion & Textile
The textile/fashion sector generates approximately 270 kg of carbon footprint per capita annually and is a major source of microplastic pollution and water contamination. The CORE DSS will include specialised circular strategies for design, production, supply chain and end-of-life value recovery in this sector.
Agri-food
Agri-food accounts for 31 % of total EU emissions. CORE addresses the sector’s specific challenges in waste valorisation, short supply chains, sustainable sourcing and regenerative agriculture - supporting entrepreneurs who want to create viable, planet-positive businesses.
The CORE project unites five organisations from four EU countries to address a shared challenge that cannot be solved at national level alone. By combining diverse regulatory contexts, sector ecosystems and training traditions, the partnership creates a knowledge baseline that benefits all partner countries and can be replicated across the EU. The release of Europass Digital Credentials (ECDs) will further boost mutual recognition of skills across borders.
