Objectives: The addition of biochar in composting materials aims to improve their physiochemical properties and enhance the composting process. The goal is to utilise the positive properties of biochar in agriculture and land reclamation, while preventing the introduction of potentially harmful compounds to the environment as well as accelerating the composting process by increasing respiration rates when processing large volumes of materials. Biochar incorporation is done by adding biochar to the raw materials before composting or mixing it into the compost before it is applied to the soil.

Results: In both cases of incorporation, the addition of biochar regulates the release of nutrients, increases the number of microorganisms capable of decomposing organic matter, optimizes water retention indicated by water capacity and pH values, and improves the environmental impact due to its odour-reducing properties. The biochar-enriched compost has low salinity levels so as not to affect the yield of agricultural crops, while eliminating the risk of agricultural soil salinisation. The addition of 20% biochar to the compost feedstock reduces the concentration of NH3 in emissions by up to 64% and nitrogen losses by 52%.

Practical implications/Recommendations: The addition of biochar during composting accelerates the composting rate and reduces nutrient losses. Thermophilic conditions are reached within 12 hours after the addition of biochar and the efficiency of organic matter decomposition increases by 14-16% with a 15% addition of biochar. The addition of biochar should be in the range of 5-10% and should not exceed 20% of the total compost, as higher rates can interfere with the decomposition processes. 

• Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (2020) "The biochar addition effect to …

Objectives: The goal is to introduce a more economically viable and environmentally friendly mixed culture of maize (Zea mays) with legume crops. The aim is to determine whether silage from mixed culture can be used in biogas plants for biogas production and at the same time increase the sustainability of agriculture. The structure of a mixed culture stand composed of sown maize and legume crop represents an advantage for farmers as it saves on fertilizer costs and provides higher biomass yields of both components of the mixed culture per unit area. Furthermore, it increases the anti-erosion effect on land where sown maize is grown. Growing crops in a mixed culture system is an element of sustainable agriculture.

Results: White sweetclover appears to be a particularly suitable legume for creating a mixed field crop with maize. Different model silages were prepared, varying in the content (from 10 wt.% to 70 wt.%) of the added legume. The optimum ratio of maize (Zea mays L.) and white sweetclover (Melilotus albus Med.) in mixed culture for biomethane production was determined and the effect of legume addition on biogas quality was also noted.

Practical implications/Recommendations: The proportion of white sweetclover in the silage must not exceed 20% by weight to avoid negatively affecting biogas and methane yields. These silages showed an average methane content of 55% in biogas, while the average methane content when using maize silage alone was 56.5%. 

• Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (2020) "Application of maize growing te…

Objectives: The implementation of verified technological procedures is designed to achieve a long-term increase in hectare yields and enhance soil quality through the application of digestate combined with biochar. This approach is relevant for agricultural enterprises seeking sustainable and economically advantageous ways to improve production, soil properties, functional diversity, fertility, and carbon sequestration back into the soil. Due to rising costs of agricultural inputs and industrial fertilizers, it is necessary to find effective ways to utilize by-products of field farming. The combination of digestate and biochar represents a solution that not only improves soil quality but also contributes to the sustainability of agricultural production.

Results: A new technology has been designed and verified, utilizing processed waste materials, specifically stable organic substances such as digestate and biochar. Adding biochar to digestate and their joint maturation positively affects the dynamics of nutrient bioavailability in the biochar matrix with digestate for nutrient uptake by plants and soil microorganisms. The application of these substances increases the supply of organic matter to the soil, thus preserving its fertility potential and functional diversity of soil organisms.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: The implementation of these technological procedures can significantly improve the management of organic fertilizers and reduce dependence on industrial fertilizers. Economic evaluation shows that the application of biochar-enriched digestate represents an annual total benefit of 1,203 CZK/ha (ca. 50 EUR/ha). This approach leads to a long-term increase in hectare yields, for example, in silage maize by 3.14-6.71 %, winter wheat by 3.44-9.91 %, and winter rapeseed by 10.68-14.90 %. Additionally, it can improve the qualitative parameters of crops and the management of organic matter, which can lead to savings on industrial fertilizers. 

• Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (2022) "Promoting the functional divers…

Objectives: The spread of biomass-based thermal and electrical energy plants has led to a significant amount of residual ash that must be properly managed. Despite their agronomic value and role in organic soil amendments, these ashes are classified as special waste in Italy. However, due to the limited quantities generated, forestry enterprises typically lack the opportunity to establish agronomic utilization agreements, allowing ashes to exit the waste circuit. As a result, forestry enterprises face high disposal costs (currently exceeding €500/ton) and are forced to waste both economic and agronomic value.

The Probest project promotes the agronomic use of wood ashes, either directly as a by-product or as a component of next-generation, low-energy-impact fertilizers. The goal is to identify organizational and operational solutions that comply with regulatory requirements for secondary raw materials and fully harness the agronomic and economic potential of wood combustion ashes, with a cascading bioeconomy valorization approach.

Results: Within the ProBest project, it was estimated that each ton of ash could be sold for reuse at a value between €5-10/ton. Conversely, disposal costs at dedicated facilities are significantly high, largely depending on logistics and the disposal area. These costs range between €50-150/ton, posing a substantial burden for companies. In this context, the difference between disposal costs and potential revenue from ash sales could reach up to €160/ton.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Ashes can potentially be used as soil amendments and/or fertilizers, in the construction sector and as a supporting material for the development of forest roads. This variety of applications, combined with the fact that in Italy ash is classified as a special waste -making its disposal costly- highlights the potential of ash valorization as a sustainable bio-based technology (BBT) from both an environmental and economic perspective for end-users.

• For more information on the proposed BBT and the PROBEST project, visit:

Objectives: In recent years, greenhouse heating costs have reached unsustainable levels for agricultural businesses. Thermal energy production in greenhouses typically relies on diesel-fueled boilers with independent burners and a distribution, regulation, and emission system that operates with low efficiency, resulting in the loss of approximately 60% of the fuel’s thermal potential.

Results: The MERLIn project, funded by the Liguria Region, aims to bridge the knowledge gap between agricultural enterprises and providers of innovative, energy-efficient, and cost-effective technological solutions. As part of the MERLIn project, the University of Genoa has proposed a new system for thermal energy production and distribution. This system features a new generation of fully automated, low-emission biomass-powered boilers arranged in series. The proposed solution not only significantly reduces fuel consumption but also offers substantial savings by using wood chips, lowering the cost of potential energy. Heating an 8,000 m² greenhouse to a temperature suitable for crops -16°C- would require 365 tons of wood chips per year, at an annual cost of €60,000. This is just one-third of the €176,000 needed for diesel heating to maintain the same greenhouse at only 12-13°C.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Implementing this greenhouse climate control system represents a significant management improvement for businesses, allowing better control of climatic conditions, regulation of individual zones, and enhanced comfort for crops, all with considerably lower operating costs than current systems. 

• The MERLIn project, funded by the Liguria Region, aims to bridge the knowledge …

Objectives: Biogas plants disperse a significant share of their thermal energy into the environment, reducing system efficiency and increasing dependence on energy market fluctuations. The inability to fully utilize this heat represents both an economic and operational weakness. The POWERFOOD project addresses this issue by recovering waste heat from biogas plants and digestate for innovative food-feed production, focusing on Spirulina algae. This high-value superfood is rich in nutrients, aligns with vegan dietary trends, and targets a high-income market segment.

Results: The BBT (bio-based technology) proposed by POWERFOOD is an innovative solution capable of valorising biogas plant production waste while also providing a risk management tool for local entrepreneurs, allowing them to diversify their income sources. The experimental results showed an annual Spirulina algae yield of approximately 200 kg/acre, using production inputs such as bicarbonate, fertilizers, electricity, labour, and heat. The integration of thermal energy from biogas, as proposed by POWERFOOD, eliminates heat-related costs, which would otherwise amount to €5-10 per kg. Without this thermal integration, Spirulina farming would be restricted to shorter periods.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Moreover, this process aligns perfectly with the energy and nutritional goals outlined in the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy). However, since this practice is still relatively uncommon, adequate training and support from the AKIS system are essential. This BBT is not without limitations: dedicated structures for cultivation are required, expertise in this field is not widely available, and production risks are higher compared to traditional crops.

• For more information on the proposed BBT and the POWERFOOD project:

Objectives: Downy mildew is a persistent threat to greenhouse and outdoor vegetables, particularly harmful for crops such as tomatoes, eggplants and onions. In organic farming, where sustainable agricultural practices are required, alternative approaches for treating the aforementioned disease are limited, if not minimal. Aifora Kipeftika (eɪˈfɔːrə kiːˈpɛftɪkɑ - Sustainable Vegetables) project examines the integration of dried oregano into tomato crops as a natural fungicidal agent, with an emphasis on treating downy mildew. Through field mapping, dose optimization and assessment of disease suppression, the project aims to develop a circular economy-based protocol for sustainable plant protection.

Results: Preliminary findings suggest that oregano residues exhibit antifungal properties that can reduce downy mildew severity when incorporated into plant rhizosphere. The protocol that Aifora Kipeftika aims to develop, when applied properly, increases protection against Downy mildew and consequently limits production losses, offering a viable alternative to conventional disease control methods. Its widespread adoption across Greece could potential lead to annual gains of €3.25-6.50 million for tomatoes and €0.7-1.75 million for eggplants. In organic farming, where control measures are even more restricted, these benefits are projected to double.

Practical Implications & Recommendations: Aifora Kipeftika aligns with sustainable agricultural production principles by integrating agro-industrial residues into plant protection strategies. To maximize its impact, farmers should adopt the proposed oregano integration protocol strictly, particularly in high-risk areas. Further validation across diverse cultivars and environmental conditions will enhance protocol reliability, supporting its broader implementation. Adopting this practice not only improves crop resilience but also suggests an alternative way to utilize oregano residues into a valuable agricultural input. 

• For more information regarding the "Aromatic plant byproducts utilization for t…

Objectives: The BIO2CHP project addresses the challenge of energy efficiency and waste management that agro-food SMEs face. It provides a sustainable, on-site solution by converting solid organic residues into electricity and heat, reducing both energy costs and waste disposal expenses. Designed as a modular, automated Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system with minimal infrastructure requirements, BIO2CHP has the size of a container, enabling businesses to utilize their existing biomass residues efficiently while decreasing reliance on conventional energy sources.

Results: The 25 kWel BIO2CHP unit generates 187,500 kWh of electricity and 502,500 kWh of thermal energy annually, consuming approximately 187.5 tons of solid organic residues. The pilot implementation has demonstrated its ability to efficiently process various types of organic waste, ensuring a reliable energy supply for SMEs, with an annual operating time of approximately 7,500 hours. Its automated control system reduces maintenance requirements, while its capability to handle mixed residues enhances its versatility across different agro-food sectors. Once the system reaches its full production potential, the resulting economic benefits for the producer may surpass the average reported agricultural income for Greek farmers.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: The BIO2CHP system presents a practical, cost-effective solution for SMEs in the wine, olive oil, and rice sectors, among others, by transforming agricultural residues into valuable energy and optimizing energy use and waste management. To maximize efficiency, selecting appropriate feedstock with moisture levels below 20% is recommended, while further operational data from the pilot phase will continue to refine system performance and economic feasibility. 

• For more information visit:

Objectives: A primary challenge (Greek) farmers face is the limited availability of organic matter for direct on-site application. This is exacerbated by difficulties in the transportation of organic material from the areas of their origin to the composting/processing facilities, and then back to application sites. The problem is intensified by farmers' inability to identify ways to transform organic residues into valuable products. The COMPOST-INNO project aims to address these issues by producing high-quality compost from mixed by-products and waste, including market residues, pruning waste, and poultry farming by-products.

Results: Organic by-products are collected and separated into two parts. One part undergoes traditional composting, while the other is used for biochar production. Among the composts derived from different raw materials, the one with superior physicochemical properties is enriched with microbial biostimulants and biochar, in order to produce a high performance biofertilizer. Preliminary trials in pots and fields show that enriched compost improves plant growth/productivity, by enhancing soil fertility. Biochar also helps stabilize carbon in the soil, reducing CO2 concentrations and mitigating climate change. These results reflect literature (Antón-Herrero et al., 2021), arguing that biochar and biostimulant solutions improve crop growth in polluted soils.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Conventional organic residue management has both economic and environmental costs. The enriched compost product provides a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, helping reduce soil degradation and water contamination. It improves soil structure, boosts nutrient supply and increases crop productivity. This cost-effective solution supports circular economy principles by making good use of agricultural and organic waste. Challenges like waste collection logistics and upfront costs can be tackled through regional collaborations and policy incentives

Objectives: As plastic pollution is a serious problem acknowledged worldwide, environmentally-aware consumers nowadays tend to look for eco-friendly options. However, popular bioplastics are not as green as most people think. Often they are produced from food raw materials, which is not the best use of resources. They also require specific conditions to degrade or compost, but many countries lack suitable industrial composting plants. The answer to this problem may be utilizing agricultural waste for biomaterial production, which is a significant contribution to circular bioeconomy: it can both reduce waste and decrease the demand for traditional petroleum-based plastics, counteracting the depletion of fossil fuels.

Results: SeaSoil is a Polish biotech company fighting plastic pollution by transforming unwanted agricultural and food waste into biodegradable plastic-like material. Their technology involves novel extraction methods without environmentally-hazardous chemical solvents. The product is similar to popular rigid plastics (e.g. polypropylene and polyethylene), biodegradable in all conditions of microbial contamination (e.g. in the sea, soil, forest). Such created material can be used e.g. for production of food or cosmetics packaging, but also in other industries, as it is waterproof, impact-resistant, easily moulded into various shapes. Thanks to biodegradable properties, it can be used in agriculture as well, e.g. for the production of agro-textiles, which will decompose into micronutrients enriching the soil.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Production of such biomaterial generates lower GHG emissions in comparison to petroleum-based plastic. Utilizing renewable sources like agricultural waste also lowers production costs, potentially reducing consumer prices. Replacing traditional plastic in packaging can help raise awareness about the environmental impact of the purchased products and encourage consumers to make more sustainable choices. 

• More about the SeaSoil biopolymers

Objectives: Poland is the biggest producer of berries in EU, supplying over 75% of blackcurrant and 23% of highbush blueberry, with many plantations located in the Lubelskie region. Responding to the needs of local berry producers, Ribes Technologies developed software and hardware for sustainable fruit farming. This OG offers a solution for autonomous protection of berry plantations, reducing the use of Plant Protection Products (PPPs) and thus enhancing fruit quality, while raising consumer awareness and promoting environmental consciousness.

Results: A key component of the solution is the vision module, which detects pests on berry bushes and communicates with the sprayer to precisely apply chemicals where needed. The sprayer allows two different selective formulations to be applied at the same time, which allows to control two different types of pests simultaneously: aphid (Aphidomorph) and currant borer (Pandemis Ribeana) and significantly reduce the use of chemicals. The machinery is mounted on an autonomous four-wheeled vehicle that follows a set route on a field. It also features a cargo area e.g. for fruit transportation. The solution can be complemented with a digital pest trap, fully automated and powered by a solar PV system. A built-in camera monitors the situation and predicts when the spraying robot should enter the field, eliminating the need for daily plantation checks.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: With electric vehicles and systems based on artificial intelligence, the solution enables precise monitoring and application of PPPs. This translates into greater efficiency and a sustainable approach to agriculture. It aims to reduce the costs of PPPs used in orchards, as well as help fulfil the UE requirements for PPP reductions by 50% by the year 2030. The solution can benefit both farmers and consumers – it will not only reduce the PPP costs but also significantly reduce pesticide residues in harvested fruits. 

• Official website

Objectives: The best defence against abiotic and biotic stresses and pathogens, especially fungal and bacterial diseases, is the inherent immunity of the plant itself. However, when a plant lacks natural resistance, introduction of PPPs becomes necessary. As agriculture faces the challenge of not only feeding a growing population but also adapting to climate change and developing mitigation strategies, it needs to find a way to protect crops and minimize environmental impact without synthetic pesticides and excessive fertilization.

Results: Understanding the microbial interactions in the rhizosphere and using them to improve plant nutrient intake can successfully reduce the number of fertilisers and PPPs used in agriculture (Ogar et al., 2015), as proved by the Insignes Labs start-up. They offer a unique blend of mineral molecules boosting plant immunity by activating their natural defence mechanisms, resulting in their healthy growth. It acts as a catalyst of important physiological processes in plants, stimulating crop development, and providing plants with essential micronutrients for high quality yields. The technology enables slashing synthetic pesticide usage by up to 50% and synthetic fertilizers up to 20%, thanks to improved nutrient management. Enhanced photosynthetic activity results in the boost of biomass production, contributing to the sequestration of CO2.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Insignes Labs developed a portfolio of products to address specific agricultural needs. Technology validation processes were conducted across 20+ crops, e.g. wheat, rapeseed, corn, soybean, sugar beet, potatoes, grapes, berries, apples, and other, involving local farmers and food producers to understand the unique challenges and requirements of different regions. The benefits extend to both farmers and consumers. For farmers, it means improved productivity without harming the environment, while consumers can enjoy high-quality, residue-free food on their plates. 

Objectives: The SCARABEO project represents an innovative approach aimed at diversifying and valorising by-products and waste generated from hemp processing. Its main outputs included hemp fibre with potential application as biomaterial, polyphenols with food or pharmaceutical uses, biochar and insect larval biomass for potential feed and biofuel production. Aligned with the principles of circular economy, SCARABEO redesigned the maceration plant to reduce heat loss and enhance energy consumption of operations, using sensors for operation control and reuse of maceration liquids. In addition of hemp fibre retting, the hemp core was carbonized in a pyrogasifier to produce biochar. Also, the maceration was co-processed using the larvae of Black Soldier Fly resulting in better hemp fibre cleaning.

SCARABEO has successfully addressed inefficiencies in Italian hemp industry, and by diversifying revenues, saved on costs and introduced new markets for farmers.

Results: 

• This project was funded by the Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy under an Operationa…

Objectives: Roadside grass clippings are often considered waste, but they hold significant potential as a renewable resource. This project addressed the logistical, technical, and policy challenges of transforming these clippings into valuable bio-based products, such as biogas and biocomposites, while promoting sustainability and circularity.

The Grassification project aimed to valorise roadside grass clippings by optimizing their supply chain and processing, demonstrating their market potential, and formulating policy recommendations to support their recycling. The goal was to increase the volume of usable material, reduce costs, and create higher added value for this renewable resource, boosting its market value and attractiveness for the biobased and circular economy.

Results: 

• The project was implemented in Flanders, Belgium. For more information, visit t…

Objective: Farms generate significant amounts of lignocellulosic residues such as meadow grass, wood, and straw. "Lignocellulosic Biorefinery - Anaerobic digestion of farm residues (wood, grass, straw)" project explores the use of anaerobic digestion to convert farm lignocellulosic residues into valuable products, promoting sustainability without affecting food production.
Many farms often underutilize lignocellulosic residues of limited value. A farm-based lignocellulosic biorefinery, allows producers to convert these residues into high-value feed proteins and bio-materials, reducing reliance on external inputs. This approach enhances farm profitability, supports on-farm sustainability, and contributes to a circular agro-economy. The biorefinery process is easily implemented, allowing farmers to valorize available biomass with minimal additional effort.

Results: 

• The Biorefinery Pilot Plant website

Objective: Dairy farms often rely on traditional bedding materials such as straw, wood chips, or sawdust, which can be costly, while effective manure storage is often challenging with larger herds. In the EIP-AGRI Operational Group project, titled "Stabilized litter for dairy cows: optimization of the use of litter derived from the solid fraction separated from manure", dairy cattle slurry is processed in a rotating drum separator with increased temperature to reduce the pathogens to stabilise the resulting solid fraction. This is used as alternative bedding material. The project evaluated the relevant cost of the purchase and stocking of other litter material such as straw, wood chips or sawdust. The goal is to assess if this solution can be implemented in Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farms without negatively impacting cow housing conditions, animal welfare and cleanliness milk quality, or cheese production.

Result: 

· Feasibility & Scalability: Large herds (>400 cows) generate significant manure, making this technology viable for sustainable bedding.
· Low carbon sink potential, moderate economic benefits (cost savings from bedding and manure management), and high technical complexity pose challenges for smaller farms.
· Sustainability: Moderate social impact (reduced dust, rural economic support) and environmental benefits (waste recycling, resource efficiency).
· Added Value: Promotes circular economy principles by repurposing waste.
· The approach aligns moderately with agricultural sustainability & bioeconomy initiatives, but requires further integration efforts to maximise impact.
Practical Implications:

·    Best suited for larger dairy farms due to required investment in separation and stabilisation technology.
·    Lowers bedding costs and improves sustainability.
·    Requires technical planning and support to manage initial investment and operational complexity.
·    Reduces reliance on external bedding sources.

Objectives: The olive oil industry in Spain generates significant amounts of by-products, including olive mill effluents and grove residues, which pose environmental and economic challenges. The development of sustainable valorization technologies aims to transform these waste streams into high-quality organic fertilizers, improving soil health and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Sustainable valorization technologies enhance circular economy practices by integrating agricultural waste back into productive cycles while mitigating pollution risks.

Results: A composting process combining olive mill sludge and leaf residues has been successfully developed, yielding an effective organic fertilizer. Field trials show it improves soil organic matter, fertility, reduces erosion, and lowers the need for synthetic fertilizers, minimizing water contamination risks. The process is a viable, scalable alternative to traditional waste disposal. Other previous studies confirm the benefits of composted olive residues for soil health and productivity, such as the impact of olive solid waste and compost on soil properties and tomato plant growth, offering insights into sustainable agriculture (Killi and Kavdir, 2013).

Practical Implications/Recommendations: Applying this composting technology provides olive producers and agricultural sectors with a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for managing by-products. This method not only reduces waste disposal costs but also enhances soil sustainability and promotes long-term agricultural productivity. To ensure widespread adoption, collaboration among olive mills, agricultural cooperatives, and research institutions is crucial, enabling efficient knowledge transfer and optimization of the composting process. Policy incentives and regional initiatives can further drive the integration of this sustainable practice into the industry. 

• Operational Group – VALORIZA

Objective: A key challenge in Spain's biomass sector is managing agricultural waste, which creates difficulties for farmers. Huge volumes of residues are often underutilized or sent to landfills due to limited processing technologies and logistical constraints. Converting agricultural waste into activated carbon provides a sustainable solution, transforming materials like almond shells and rice husks into a high-value adsorbent for pollutant removal. This approach aligns with Circular Economy principles, reducing environmental impact and offering cost-effective solutions for water treatment and industrial applications.

Result: Agricultural waste is collected and processed to produce activated carbon. The raw materials undergo pyrolysis, a thermal decomposition process in an oxygen-limited environment, yielding biochar with a high surface area. This biochar is then chemically or physically activated to enhance its adsorption properties, making it suitable for pollutant removal in water treatment and industrial applications. Laboratory and pilot-scale tests confirm their efficiency in capturing contaminants, supporting its potential as a sustainable alternative to conventionally activated carbon. These findings align with existing research (Rodríguez-Reinoso et al., 1982), confirming the feasibility of converting agricultural waste into a high-value, eco-friendly material.

Practical Implications: Bio-based activated carbon can be applied in water treatment, industrial filtration, and environmental remediation as a cost-effective sustainable alternative to conventional materials. Utilizing low-cost agricultural residues reduces operational expenses while minimizing waste. End-users benefit from improved water quality and a lower environmental footprint. Integrating this technology into Circular Economy models enhances resource efficiency, while policy incentives and regional collaborations can further drive adoption and scalability.

Objectives: The main objective of the Citrus Biochar project is to transform citrus pruning residues into biochar for agricultural soil amendment. The initiative aims to enhance soil quality, promote sustainable agricultural practices and contribute to a circular economy by reusing agricultural waste. The project also seeks to evaluate the agronomic benefits of biochar application in citrus orchards and its impact on soil health and plant productivity.

Results: The project demonstrated that biochar obtained from citrus pruning improves soil conditions, particularly in terms of water retention, porosity and microbial activity. Additionally, biochar application contributes to increased potassium availability, essential for plant growth. Laboratory analyses confirmed that biochar enhances soil cation exchange capacity, leading to better nutrient retention and reduced leaching. Field trials indicated an improvement in root development and plant vigor, as well as a reduction in water stress during dry periods. Furthermore, biochar applications showed potential in mitigating soil degradation issues, particularly in sandy soils, by increasing organic matter content and microbial biodiversity. These positive outcomes reaffirm biochar as a viable and effective soil amendment for citrus cultivation, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional soil management practices.

Practical Implications/Recommendations: 

• Citrus Biochar is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Developmen…

Objective: The project tackles biomass management challenges in Spain's agriculture and forestry, aiming to improve sustainability, cost efficiency, and resource use. High processing costs and limited access to technology and funding hinder bioeconomy adoption. Raising awareness and implementing innovative solutions can enhance sustainability, reduce waste, and boost rural economies.

Result: The project promotes innovative biomass management solutions, including on-site processing models for cost-effective use and raffia separation in greenhouses to improve waste processing. Drying and separation technologies reduce moisture, cutting transport costs and increasing market value. Biomass management plants in forestry areas support circular bioeconomy and local jobs. Using agricultural residues for biogas and compost reduces waste and boosts renewable energy. The project also tailors bio-based technologies to each region´s needs for sustainable biomass use.

Practical Implications: To implement these solutions, farmers and foresters should invest in drying and separation technologies to improve processing efficiency and reduce transport costs. Accessing available funding and incentives will be essential for adopting these innovations and scaling up pilot technologies. Engaging in local biomass management initiatives can support the creation of circular bioeconomy microclimates, improving resource efficiency and employment opportunities. Collaboration with cooperatives, research institutions, and technology providers will facilitate knowledge transfer and access to new market opportunities. Raising awareness and providing training programs, particularly for youth, unemployed individuals, and women, will help develop the necessary green skills to support the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy. By integrating these approaches, practitioners can increase productivity, enhance environmental sustainability, and improve the economic viability of biomass resources.