The meeting focused on four key themes:
- Cross-sectoral collaboration and overcoming barriers in the bioeconomy.
- The development and testing of innovative bioproducts.
- Integrating the bioeconomy into policies, such as the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
- Engaging stakeholders to enhance value chains and maximize bioeconomic impact.
The event provided attendees with a mix of engaging presentations, collaborative workshops, and hands-on working sessions. One of the highlights was a unique brewery tour, where participants learned about the fascinating beer production process.
An especially noteworthy moment was the presentation by a partner from the National Bioeconomy Hub in Poland, who demonstrated innovative upcycling methods. Unused bread was transformed into remarkable bioproducts, such as sustainable proteins, fermented beverages, cosmetics, and other materials. This circular approach illustrates the vast potential for reducing waste in the agri-food sector.
Participants also explored cutting-edge developments in the bioeconomy during a visit to a laboratory specializing in bioproduct creation and processes related to the circular economy.
The event was meticulously organized by the dedicated IUNG-PIB team, which included notable contributors such as Piotr Jurga (project coordinator), Dr. Olga Goławska (Project Assistant), Jakub Izdebski (Innovation Broker), and Prof. Stelios Rozakis. The team was also joined by Dr. hab. Jerzy Kozyra, head of the Department of Bioeconomy and Agrometeorology.
The AGH University of Science and Technology’s Górniczo-Hutniczy Brewery provided a fitting venue for the meeting. Interestingly, the brewery uses innovative hop varieties like Iunga, developed by the IUNG-PIB team.
With Poland’s rich agricultural resources and growing potential for utilizing bio-waste, the country is well-positioned to become a leader in sustainable bioeconomy development.
The consortium meeting concluded on an optimistic note, driven by inspiring discussions, fruitful collaborations, and the unforgettable charm of Kraków. As the BIOECO-UP project progresses, it continues to pave the way for a greener, circular, and innovative future in the bioeconomy sector.