The BBTWINS project has made significant strides in waste processing and valorization technologies, transforming by-products from the meat and fruit industries into valuable resources that support a circular economy. Key research efforts have focused on converting pig manure, skins, bones, and fruit processing waste into renewable energy and high-value compounds.
Notably, the project has achieved biogas production estimates of over 19 million cubic meters annually under optimal conditions, potentially supplying enough energy to power thousands of homes. Researchers are also working on recovering nutrients from manure for use as natural fertilizers, though further efficiency improvements are needed.
André Ribeiro, Senior Researcher at the CVR – Centre for Waste Valorisation, highlighted the successful extraction of keratin from pig hair, reaching a purity rate of over 94%, making it suitable for various commercial applications. Additionally, the project found that fruit pruning waste could be effectively utilized to produce energy, and extraction techniques have successfully isolated beneficial compounds from peach processing waste.
These findings from the BBTWINS project demonstrate the promise of converting waste into renewable energy, natural fertilizers, and high-value products, with the potential to significantly reduce environmental impact across sectors like agriculture and personal care.
Part of Horizon 2020, the BBTWINS initiative aims to develop a digital platform for optimizing agri-food processes and ensuring quality biomass availability for bioprocessing. With 13 partners across seven countries, the project will focus on enhancing efficiency throughout the meat and fruit production value chain while minimizing waste.
