Representatives from different levels of government gathered to review the developments of the SUSTAINEXT project in Extremadura, Spain. Funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU), the project aims to develop an innovative multi-product digital biorefinery with a NetZero Carbon goal. It is set to become the most innovative in the world within the botanical extracts sector and an inspiration for other biobased industries.
The SUSTAINEXT initiative introduces a pioneering 54-month model, known as the DYANA concept. This framework creates a smart biorefinery that integrates the supply chain while ensuring zero waste and emissions. The project emphasizes the optimal valorization of feedstock.
SUSTAINEXT plans on using 6 sustainable feedstocks of European origin, 3 of which will be cultivated in Extremadura. These crops —rosemary, chamomile, and lemon verbena— will be grown in previously used tobacco fields to maximize land use.
Additionally, the project will incorporate agro-industrial side-streams, including materials from olive, artichoke/cardoon, and pomegranate. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of upcycling biomass in transforming under-utilized biological materials.
The project consortium consists of 20 partners from various European nations. Notable participants include Natac, TABACOEX, Enel Green Power, and Università degli Studi di Torino, all contributing to the initiative’s objectives.
Nicoló Giacomuzzi-Moore, CBE JU Executive Director, stated: “SUSTAINEXT shows the power of collaboration in the circular bioeconomy, transforming a visionary idea into a future groundbreaking biorefinery that will drive sustainability, innovation, and economic growth in the Extremadura region. This flagship project not only showcases Europe’s leadership in bio-based industries but also creates new opportunities for rural regions through zero-waste, zero-emission solutions”.
