The Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evep) took part in a three-day meeting in Bastia, Corsica, under the Olive Oil Med Net project, in a move aimed at strengthening cooperation and know-how exchange across the Mediterranean olive oil sector.  According to the chamber, the discussions brought together representatives from Mediterranean regions, with the Paphos body saying its participation reflected its commitment to promoting quality and innovation in the industry.  The meetings focused on the exchange of best practices and experience, with particular attention given to quality issues, chemical analysis and the identification of olive oil varieties.  Participants also visited local olive mills, gaining first-hand insight into production processes and linking technical discussions with on-the-ground application.  The meetings concluded with the creation of the Mediterranean Olive Oil Network, bringing together 31 organisations and laying the groundwork for future cooperation and joint initiatives in the sector.  Co-funded by the Interreg Euro-Med 2021-2027 programme, the OliveOilMedNet project is specifically designed to address territorial challenges while helping policy makers and companies produce more competitive, “authentic,” and “green” olive oil products.  The project focuses on machine learning authentication by developing methodologies to certify the authenticity and geographical origin of extra virgin olive oils based on organoleptic and chemical characteristics.  Furthermore, it promotes sustainability through the introduction of eco-friendly cultivation techniques and sustainable technological solutions for both olive groves and mills.  To build climate resilience, the initiative establishes a stakeholder network to foster sustainable production and consumption patterns while mitigating the environmental impacts of climate change.  Finally, it strengthens institutional capacity by enhancing cooperation between academic institutions and local authorities to improve policy-making and help businesses adopt innovative practices developed in previous research projects. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Cyprus Mail