ACE-EX: Training to Lead the Circular Economy in the Agri-Food Sector of the European Union

The transition towards a circular economy in the EU agri-food sector requires not only technological innovation, but also specialised training that equips professionals to address the environmental, economic and social challenges of the future. In this context, the ACE-EX (Agriculture Circular Economy Expert) project was created—an EU-funded initiative aimed at developing a new professional profile capable of leading this transformation: the Agricultural Circular Economy Expert.

A training response to the challenges of the European Green Deal

ACE-EX aligns with the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, offering an educational programme that combines sustainability, digitalisation and waste valorisation. The project addresses the need for technical profiles capable of applying circular economy principles in key sectors such as olive oil, wine, cereals, natural cosmetics and agro-industrial recycling. ACE-EX is fully aligned with EU strategies for promoting sustainable economic growth and supporting small businesses, highlighting the need for specialised curricula to accelerate the adoption of circular practices.

Innovative and multidisciplinary training

The training programme developed under ACE-EX is defined by an interactive, flexible and accessible approach, with pathways tailored to different qualification levels (EQF 4, 5 and potentially 6). Its main features include:

• Virtual reality content to support experiential learning

• Recognition of prior learning, aligned with national accreditation systems

• Multilingual materials available in English, Spanish, Italian, Greek and German

• Open access to training resources, promoting inclusion and equity

This approach enables NEET youth (young people not in education, employment or training), jobseekers, workers, entrepreneurs and apprentices to acquire essential skills to drive sustainability in their professional environments.

EU cooperation for sector-wide transformation

The ACE-EX project is driven by an EU consortium bringing together training organisations, technology centres, business associations and public bodies from several countries. This transnational collaboration ensures a broad and practice-oriented perspective on circular economy, adapted to the productive realities of each region. In addition, ACE-EX fosters knowledge-sharing networks among professionals, educational institutions and companies, encouraging the exchange of best practices and the transfer of innovation.

Expected impact: sustainability, employability and competitiveness

ACE-EX aims to generate tangible impact in three areas:

1. Environmental sustainability, by reducing waste and valorising agricultural by-products
2. Improved employability, through certified training aligned with labour-market needs
3. Enhanced business competitiveness, by integrating circular practices that optimise resources and reduce costs

Ultimately, ACE-EX represents a strategic commitment to a smarter, more sustainable and more inclusive agricultural model, where training plays a pivotal role as a driver of change.