What we do

GARDEN is an ambitious initiative focused on revolutionizing food logistics in the Mediterranean region through sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Coordinated by the University of Zagreb’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, GARDEN aims to address the pressing environmental challenges posed by traditional food logistics systems. Our comprehensive approach combines innovative technologies, strategic planning, and community engagement to create greener, healthier urban environments.

our goals

  • Energy Transition – Supporting the shift to carbon-free logistics systems for food supply and bio-waste management in Mediterranean cities.
  • Climate Adaptation – Promoting climate change adaptation and disaster risk prevention through eco-system-based approaches.
  • Sustainable Urban Development – Integrating renewable energy sources and sustainable logistics practices into urban planning and development.
  • Policy Support – Formulating and integrating recommendations into local and regional strategies to facilitate the energy transition and sustainable food logistics.

OUR ACTIVITIES

  • We are setting up six pilot demonstrators in Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria to test and showcase the feasibility of green logistics solutions. These pilots serve as living laboratories where innovative ideas are tested, refined, and validated in real-world conditions.
  • Our team is developing strategic frameworks and action plans to support public authorities in adopting green logistics practices, offering guidelines for urban development, energy transition, and reducing environmental impact.
  • Through a living lab approach, we engage local communities, businesses, and public authorities to co-create practical and sustainable solutions, ensuring our strategies are tailored to the needs and contexts of each location.
  • We are committed to producing educational materials, organizing workshops, and creating a knowledge-sharing platform to disseminate best practices and innovative solutions.
  • We provide concrete policy recommendations to local and regional authorities, aiming to remove barriers to decarbonization and facilitate the integration of sustainable logistics practices into public policies.