Region of Coimbra

CIM Região de Coimbra is a public association of 19 municipalities in the Central Region of Portugal. With a population of over 460.000 inhabitants, it has a vast cultural and natural richness: from UNESCO classified World Heritage sites to breathtaking natural spaces, from the ocean front to river beaches, from mountains to urban spaces, from ancient knowledge to the most innovative and entrepreneurial practices that prepare us for a constantly changing reality.

The Região de Coimbra is the largest intermunicipal community in Portugal, comprising a geographic area characterized by landscape, climatic and cultural diversity (from the coast to the interior, from the urban to the rural), which has contributed to a gastronomic tradition rich in products, forms of conservation and food processing.

Situated on the banks of the Mondego River, Região de Coimbra is in a strategic central position between Porto and Lisbon and has excellent access by motorway, rail, and sea through its port of Figueira da Foz, as well as good transport links to Spain.

Being part of the “FOOD CORRIDORS” URBACT network allows Região de Coimbra to further increase the valorization of endogenous products, as well as reinforce the authenticity of the region and its knowledge and food potential, mobilizing young people, involving them in the processes of strengthening the urban-rural connection.

We aim to define new strategies to include circular economy approaches in food sector implementing a circular agri-food system in Região de Coimbra. The integration between environmental degradation, economic crises and social problems are the challenges to face

This policy issue is on political agenda at region level to contribute to the economic and social cohesion, through the continuous qualification of the region, regenerating, and rehabilitating the territories with local food potential.

Presentation Video: https://youtu.be/n5fpG7iG6cw