Ireland’s natural lignocellulose resources like grass and wood for a Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy
Ireland’s natural lignocellulose resources, grass and wood, are being transformed through projects like Rural BioRefineries and NXTGENWOOD. These initiatives transition traditional materials into high-value biobased applications, fostering sustainability and creating income opportunities for farmers, foresters, and stakeholders. Grass is processed into feed, biomethane, bio-based proteins, and biofertilisers, while wood supports next-generation materials with enhanced economic returns.
Main Results/Outcomes:
Biotechnologies developed for processing grass into feed, bioplastics, and bioactive compounds, and wood into sustainable materials and chemicals.
Ireland’s first grass biorefinery established, fostering collaboration among universities, foresters, and industries.
NXTGENWOOD promotes eco-friendly bioprocesses for next-generation wood products, enhancing climate resilience.
Socio-economic benefits include increased returns for farmers and reduced carbon footprints.
Main Practical Recommendations:
-Engage with bio-based hubs to supply raw materials like grass and wood.
-Invest in small-scale green biorefineries and advanced wood processing to diversify income and adopt sustainable practices.
-Use funding from Ireland’s Bioeconomy Action Plan to implement technologies that reduce emissions and increase profitability.
-Partner with researchers to explore sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products.
These actions unlock value from natural resources, ensuring growth and sustainability aligned with Ireland’s bioeconomy goals.
MAINSTREAMing small-scale BIO-based solutions across rural Europe via regional Multi-actor Innovation Platforms and tailored innovation support
Completed | 2022-2025
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Bulgaria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Greece, Belgium