
Building collaborative communities of practice
How the Low Carbon Timber Network built collaborative communities of practice.

How the Low Carbon Timber Network built collaborative communities of practice.

Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Foundational Economy Innovation Network (FEIN) has developed a programme for Welsh SMEs to work towards net zero, fair work, and sustainable growth with circular economy principles, innovation and fair work practices.

Future Farms, a partnership project led by Social Farms & Gardens, has developed and piloted new planning guidance to help small‑scale, environmentally friendly horticulture growers in Powys unlock land for local food growing.

Castell Howell, a Welsh wholesaler, has launched two projects to strengthen and localise the Welsh food system. These initiatives are working to improve Welsh vegetable supply chains and provide schools and hospitals with locally sourced, nutritious meals.

The Welsh Veg in Schools project exemplifies how public procurement can drive meaningful change, from farm to fork. It strengthens local economies, supports sustainable farming, and helps young people understand and appreciate where their food comes from. Thanks to the support of the Backing Local Firms Fund, the foundation is set for long-term, scalable success across Wales and beyond.
How renewable energy infrastructure is being harnessed to deliver community good

How Menai Science Park is supporting other SMEs on the Net Zero journey through collaboration and transparency

What is the foundational economy? It’s a question that has been on the minds of many in Welsh public policy circles in recent years.

This month our Head of Fair Economy, Harry Thompson asks ‘where are we on the Living Wage in Wales, and how much more potential is there in this programme?’
