EU CAP Network workshop 'Circular bioeconomy - valorisation of forest by-products'

• More traditional and well-established value chains, highlighting several examples such as production of biochar, fibres, mulching material, pellets or wood composites, raw materials used for agriculture, incorporation into the soil, furniture industry, and different types of energy production.
• New, innovative value chains with the potential to generate higher added value and higher carbon sequestration, including production of materials for the chemical industry (including bioplastics), transport and food industries, the energy sector, and others.
• Experiences on business models, governance and cooperation, which support circularity, competitiveness and job creation in rural areas, while promoting efficient and sustainable value chains and a fair distribution of revenues, especially towards supply providers and rural communities.

Objectives

The specific objectives of the workshop are:

• Showcase successful initiatives: These may include innovative projects and initiatives that have successfully developed or supported value chains for forest by-products, new experiences on valorisation of forest by-products, generation of new business opportunities, markets and jobs in rural areas, and examples of governance and cooperation that enhance the role of forest owners, managers and farmers on these value chains.
• Identify and map key value chain actors and roles: Identify the key actors involved in the different value chains, their roles, and their position within the chain. This will require to also pay attention to the position and role of the rural communities within these chains.
• Discuss innovative practices and ways forward: Identify potential challenges and opportunities for improvement within the value chains, to promote the circular bioeconomy in forestry, and maximise the opportunities to support the competitiveness and development of rural communities (for example strengthening their position in the value chains, creating jobs and markets, etc.).
• Identify gaps in current knowledge and practice that hinder the development of efficient forest by-product value chains. Identify and propose areas where further research and innovation are required to develop efficient and fair value chains for high-value forest products derived from forest residues and waste.
• Encourage networking and foster partnerships between EIP-AGRI Operational Groups, Horizon Europe multi-actor projects, industry players and other relevant actors, to exchange innovative practices and innovative ideas with the aim of supporting the development of resilient, sustainable bio-based value chains.

Main target groups

We are looking for all relevant value chain actors. Priority will be given to forest managers, forest owners and farmers, foresters including their cooperatives or/and associations. Business companies and entrepreneurs, advisors and extension services, researchers, industry and other actors such as local and managing authorities are also welcomed, and any others interested in sharing their knowledge on the topic of circular bioeconomy and valorisation of by-products.

For any questions, please contact workshop.innovation@eucapnetwork.eu.