Mouans-Sartoux Leads European Food Revolution: New Role to Drive Climate-Positive Eating
Mouans-Sartoux, France – In a move poised to reshape urban food policies across Europe, the city of Mouans-Sartoux is taking the lead on a major initiative to transfer its award-winning sustainable food model to six other European communities. This breaking news comes with the announcement of a critical new position: a Project Coordinator to drive the Urbact EAT4CLIMAT network, a project funded by the European Union’s Urbact IV program. This isn’t just about local food; it’s about a fundamental shift in how cities approach climate change, health, and the well-being of their citizens.
From Local Innovation to Continental Impact
For years, Mouans-Sartoux has been quietly building a reputation as a pioneer in sustainable food systems. Their commitment began with a bold move in 2012: a 100% organic collective catering program, largely supplied by the city’s own agricultural management. This wasn’t a one-off gesture. The city has consistently expanded its efforts, reducing food waste by 80% in school canteens, tripling agricultural land dedicated to local farmers, and establishing the Sustainable Food Education House (MEAD) – a true “innovation laboratory” for food policy.
This dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, Mouans-Sartoux was recognized as a “Good Practice” by Urbact for its transformative approach, demonstrating a measurable 26% reduction in the climate impact of its residents’ diets. The city’s success isn’t just theoretical; it’s backed by rigorous impact studies showing reduced water usage, oil consumption, and land requirements.
The EAT4CLIMAT Project: Scaling Sustainable Solutions
The Urbact EAT4CLIMAT network, slated to launch in late 2025 (pending final funding validation on October 8th), aims to replicate Mouans-Sartoux’s success across Europe. The project will involve close collaboration with a European expert and the six partner cities, focusing on adapting the Mouans-Sartoux model to diverse local contexts. This isn’t about imposing a single solution, but about fostering a collaborative learning environment where cities can share best practices and accelerate the transition to more sustainable food systems.
Who’s Needed to Lead the Charge?
The newly created Project Coordinator role is central to the success of EAT4CLIMAT. The position demands a highly organized and communicative individual with a strong project management background. Fluency in English is essential, as the role involves extensive collaboration with international partners. Beyond technical skills, the ideal candidate will possess a genuine passion for sustainable food, health, and environmental issues. Experience with European programs and local authority functioning is a significant advantage.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Network coordination and partner liaison
- Local action coordination
- Comprehensive communication management
- Administrative and financial oversight
- Organization of transnational meetings and events
- Supporting the local working group (Urbact Local Group)
The position is a one-year renewable contract (CDD) with a monthly gross salary of €2050. Applicants should be prepared for travel and irregular working hours. The deadline for applications is September 17th, with interviews scheduled for September 29th.
Why This Matters: The Future of Food and Cities
Mouans-Sartoux’s initiative represents a growing recognition that food systems are not simply about providing sustenance; they are integral to climate action, public health, and economic resilience. Cities are increasingly viewed as key players in driving this transformation, and the EAT4CLIMAT project is a prime example of how local innovation can have a global impact. This isn’t just a story about one city; it’s a glimpse into the future of urban development – a future where food is a force for good, nourishing both people and the planet. For those interested in contributing to this vital work, this Project Coordinator role offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of a European revolution.
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their cover letter and CV to [email protected] and [email protected]. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on the EAT4CLIMAT project and the evolving landscape of sustainable urban food systems.
