The EKOPACK GAZTA project is part of the thematic area Efficient and circular food chain of the Etorkizuna Eraikiz – Misioak 2023 Program proposed by the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa. The EKOPACK GAZTA project focuses on addressing the environmental issues caused by non-recyclable packaging in the food industry, focusing on sustainable local production and responsible consumption of Pastor cheeses in the Gipuzkoa region. To achieve this, a multisectoral collaborative project will be carried out that involves all the actors of the food chain, such as the small artisan cheesemakers, the ARTZAI GAZTA Association, the Regulatory Council of the Idiazabal Protected Designation of Origin and EROSKI. The cooperation between the different actors in the food chain will ensure the development of an efficient and sustainable chain in the production and consumption of cheeses in Gipuzkoa. This cooperation involves the active and coordinated participation of producers, processors, distributors and consumers, working together to address the challenges facing the cheese industry and Gipuzkoa society.

The goal is to implement biodegradable packaging in small cheese shops to reduce environmental impact and promote socially responsible production practices. In addition, this action aims to make consumers aware of the importance of choosing local and environmentally friendly products, such as cheeses produced in these cheeses. By adopting these more sustainable practices, cheesemakers can benefit in environmental, social and economic terms, and contribute to the collective effort to protect the environment and promote a more sustainable food system in the territory of Gipuzkoa.