Day 2 (11/03/2025) was a fascinating journey into the world of olive oil. In Kalamata- one of six Greek cities in the EU's '100 Climate Neutral & Smart Cities by 2030' initiative- we explored sustainable olive farming and enjoyed exquisite tastings, celebrating the city's rich legacy as the heart of olive oil production.

After a stop at the archaeological site of Mycenae, we continued to Kalamata for a study visit to the Agricultural Olive Cooperative. Led by Mr. Μιχάλης Αντωνόπουλος, President A.E.S. Kalamata and an expert Geologist-Geotechnical Engineer as well as an Environmental Advisor on Climate Change, participants had the opportunity to learn about the sustainable management of olive cultivation and eco-friendly olive oil production methods that support a transition toward a more resilient and sustainable food system.

Our next stop was at the School of Agriculture and Food of the University of Peloponnese (Schools go to University)- departments of Agriculture and Food Science and Technology. After the welcome speech of the Head of the Department of Agronomy, Mr Anastassios Darras, Professor Mr Theodoros Varzakas (Dep. of Food Science and Technology), delivered a lecture regarding Climate Change and food safety quality (Polyfluoroakyl Substances PFAS). Prof. Vasileios Dimopoulos from the Department of Agronomy, along with Mrs. Ioanna Miliouni, Quality Assurance & Communication Manager at the Olive Oil Tasting Laboratory, conducted an olive oil tasting workshop. The visit concluded with guided tours of two specialized laboratories: a) Physicochemistry, Instrumental Analysis and (Bio)Chemistry of Food by Ioannis Kapolos (Professor, Dep. of Food Science and Technology) and b) Agriculture – Tissue Culture by Mr Nontas KartsonasEpameinondas Kartsonas (Associate Professor, Department of Agriculture).

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Agricultural Cooperative of Kalamata, Mr. Michail Antonopoulos, the University of Peloponnese and the School of Agriculture and Food in Kalamata, and the esteemed scientific staff for their invaluable contribution to the successful realization of the Program’s objectives through this visit to Kalamata.