Italy: „Bio sotto casa“ to revitalise organics locally

Bio sotto case – Organics out of the home – is an initiative fitting into a three-year program (2009-2012) promoted by the EU, and is realised by Aiab, Amab and Coldiretti to raise awareness and to promote organic products in Italy, France and Germany. Presented by Fabio Ferraldeschi of Aiab, the program involves about 150,000 people – companies, decision makers, operators, consumers, retailers and specialised stores, in various steps. The starting point is catering which will involve Italy and France in training, information and workshops, aiming at presenting the advantages of organic food and encouraging the use of organic ingredients in the public sector, like in schools, for example.
 

An action which, through comparison and exchange of ideas between those involved, will give a strong impulse to overcome issues that have hitherto hindered the achievement of these goals. Like in Umbria, according to Vincenzo Vizioli, President of Aiab Umbria, where organics in the public sector are affected by a management which is too centralised and rigid and by high certification costs. "Bio sotto casa" will also focus on information campaigns aimed at consumers through the promotion in retail outlets, specialised shops and farmers' markets to create a direct contact between sellers and buyers. Participations in European events, including Biofach, Anuga and Bio-Cultura, and the implementation of communication campaigns through traditional media channels and the creation of a hotline on organics are also planned.

AIAB