On 22nd October 2024, the UNLOCK project hosted a Networking Event on Advancing Circular Economy in Agriculture at Silversquare Bailli in Brussels, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and stakeholders to explore sustainable innovations in agriculture.

Transforming Waste into Value

The UNLOCK project is transforming the bioeconomy by repurposing waste feathers from poultry processing into sustainable agricultural products. These innovations include seed trays, mulch films, hydroponic foams, and geotextiles, utilising advanced technologies such as mechanical grinding, steam explosion, and microbial fermentation.

The event showcased the latest advancements from UNLOCK and two related projects—Waste2Func and BRILIAN—demonstrating the potential of bio-based solutions to replace fossil-derived materials.

Event Highlights

The day unfolded in three main sections:

1. Presentations: Experts shared insights into feather-based technologies, policy directions, and innovative biodegradable products. Featured speakers included representatives from the European Commission, CIDETEC, RISE Processum, and other leading organsations.
2. Exhibition: Attendees explored product samples from the entire circular value chain, including biodegradable materials developed from processed feathers.
3. Networking: Participants engaged in meaningful conversations over a light aperitif, fostering collaborations to advance circular practices in agriculture.

Extending the Reach

To ensure wider accessibility, the event was livestreamed, and the full recording is now available on Greenovate! Europe’s YouTube channel. A downloadable booklet detailing the project’s innovations is also in the works, along with the event’s presentations.

A Step Forward for Sustainability

With over 50 participants from diverse sectors, the UNLOCK Networking Event proved to be a vibrant platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation. The discussions and connections made during the event set the stage for a more sustainable and circular agricultural future in Europe.

You can already check and download all the presentations, posters and materials here.