CHOICE D2.1 Stakeholders Mapping framework and list

This report describes the methods undertaken by ATHENA RC to accomplish the targets according to the CHOICE Grant Agreement and summarises the methodology, the progress and the main outcomes obtained at task and deliverable levels. This document describes the context for the identification and the mapping of the CHOICE stakeholders. The case study leaders are spearheading the process, working closely with the case study team under the guidance and support of the WP2 team. Identifying and engaging stakeholders across the food value chain is vital for fostering sustainable practices. Key stakeholders include, inter alia, farmers, food processors, distributors, retailers, policymakers, and consumers. By integrating sustainability into every step of the food value chain and fostering behavioural change, we can create resilient food systems that support environmental health, economic vitality, and social well-being, ensuring a sustainable future for all. This report describes the process undertaken to develop a framework for the identification of the socio-economic profiles of actors along the food value chain, as well as its heterogeneity on various factors affecting habits. The mapping and evaluation of relevant stakeholders builds a conceptual framework to be used by CHOICE pilots to define the key stakeholders across the food value chain in every country. The key stakeholders will be engaged in the participatory approaches in WP2, WP4 and WP6 to co-create and co-design the communication campaigns and messages so as to optimise its efficiency. To develop the stakeholder mapping framework for the CHOICE pilots and create the respective lists of stakeholders, the ATHENA RC team performed a thorough literature review based on academic papers and tailored reports published in reputable journals and databases. The aim was to build the framework leveraging the methodology of both Food Value Chain and Quintuple Helix Categorization and thoroughly review the various factors affecting food habits to determine the crucial roles stakeholders play in shaping the consumers’ food preferences. For an efficient stakeholder mapping, what is needed is an appropriate breakdown of the food value chain, which has been broken down into seven categories, and a Helix categorization which has been divided into five different aspects, as well as to further define their role in the food value chain. Each stage of the food value chain is interconnected, and the efficiency and sustainability of one stage can significantly impact the others. Understanding these stages is crucial for building a resilient and sustainable food system and maintaining it over the long term. The Quintuple Helix categorization is a way of understanding the collaborative and interdependent relationships between different sectors that drive innovation and societal progress. Each helix category adds more layers of interaction and emphasises the importance of including various perspectives and stakeholders in the innovation ecosystem. In the context of the CHOICE project the helix categorization allows for a more appropriate stakeholder selection as well as an improved ability to monitor and examine the possible connections and collaborations between the different sectors. Identifying the factors affecting consumers' food habits is material to our work, since it elucidates the mechanisms behind shifts in dietary choices, nutritional intake, and overall health. Moreover, this process is fundamental to determine the design and coordination of engagement campaigns for citizens and CHOICE stakeholders. The outcome of this exercise will lead to a consistent mapping of the specific factors to the relevant stakeholders identifying in each country campaign to bolster the effectiveness of the campaigns. This report provides a comprehensive framework for mapping and analysing stakeholders within the food value chain, with a focus on the CHOICE project’s pilot demonstrations. Overall, this report serves as a foundational document for the CHOICE project, offering a detailed and structured approach to stakeholder mapping and analysis. By understanding the intricate web of actors and factors within the food value chain, we are better equipped to design and implement effective interventions that promote sustainability and drive positive change in food systems. https://www.climatechoice.eu/resources/