On May 15th, 2024, the Verti4You Erasmus+ project was presented within the framework of the European Horticultural Congress (EHC) 2024, held in Bucharest. The presentation took place during Symposium 7 – “Urban horticulture: from vertical farming to planting design”, the main European academic platform dedicated to emerging trends in urban horticulture.
The presentation entitled “Vertical farming for youth in rural & urban communities” was delivered by Oana Venat, representing the Research Center for Studies of Food Quality and Agricultural Products at USAMV Bucharest, alongside co-authors Roxana Ciceoi, Milena Yordanova, Mihaela Dinu, Iuliana Găgeanu, Victor Potra, and Cristian Tudor – all members of the Verti4You project consortium. The session was part of the thematic block dedicated to vertical farming and sustainability, reflecting the project’s alignment with current European Green Deal objectives.
The contribution focused on how vertical farming can serve as a driver for youth inclusion, entrepreneurship, and food security. The team showcased the project structure, training methodology, and implementation of four international blended learning mobilities in Romania, Greece, Italy, and Bulgaria, as well as the development of two digital training packs on vertical farming and social entrepreneurship.
The audience also learned about the practical components of the project, including the establishment of microgreen production systems, field activities in organic and urban farms, and the engagement of youth workers and NEETs in hands-on training. The presentation included examples of local adaptation from each country, highlighting the scalability and flexibility of vertical farming models in various socio-economic and climatic conditions.
By participating in the EHC 2024 – the most prestigious European horticultural forum – the Verti4You team significantly increased the visibility of project results and connected with academic, institutional, and private stakeholders interested in sustainable food systems and youth empowerment.