The first progress meeting of the members of the Greek Multi-actor Transformative Forum (MTF) is a fact! On September 25, 2024, representatives of the primary sector, the University of the Aegean, civil society organizations and self-government had the opportunity to meet and introduce themselves and the role they have in the organizations they work for regarding Circular Bioeconomy (CBE) in the Region of North Aegean (RoNA). Useful information was shared about some first examples of existing biomass utilization initiatives based on CBE as well as how the Greek MTF is expected to contribute to supporting them.
Afterwards, a discussion followed, which is summarized in the following three topics.
Opportunities and needs for the development of circular bioeconomy actions in RoNA
The increasing costs of animal feed emerged initially as an issue that strongly concerns producers, a condition that the University of the Aegean (UoAeg) is trying to change with important actions based on the principles of the circular bioeconomy. The Center for Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy and Energy, which is managed by the UoAeg, has calculated the available biomass from pruning (mostly from olive groves) on the islands of Lesvos and Chios, while they are also examining scenarios for the utilization of other agricultural residues such as cheese whey, and olive mill wastewater. In addition, the production of biomass from microalgae (spirulina) that can be used as animal feed or to produce energy or recover bioproducts is being applied at an experimental level.
Agencies that can support the development of the circular bioeconomy in RoNA
As mentioned in the meeting, in addition to the UoAeg, the Development Agencies based in the North Aegean also play an important role, as they can support entrepreneurial initiatives regarding the circular bioeconomy on the islands. For instance, they could contribute to the integration of circular bioeconomy principles in the prerequisites for subsidies.
Other agencies that promote the principles of circular bioeconomy in RoNA are Social Cooperative Enterprises (SCEs) and NGOs. As an example, was mentioned the SCE “Ifestio Anemotias” which applies business models that include composting, the use of biochar to improve soil quality while increasing water capacity and water retention as well as sheep’s wool for mulching in different types of cultivations (oregano and aromatics, viticulture etc.). At the same time it organizes experiential workshops open to the public to raise awareness about circular bioeconomy tools and techniques. Additionally, the NGO Sporos Regeneration Institute, in collaboration with the SCE Modoussa, organizes educational campaigns about the principles of circular bioeconomy. In this context, it offers its shredders and expertise free of charge so growers can process, compost and incorporate their pruning residues in the soil.
Challenges for the development of circular bioeconomy in RoNA
Participants agreed that the high cost of implementing and operating some circular bioeconomy applications, without the support of government agencies, acts as a major obstacle to the development of the sector. Another challenge is the fact that the small amounts of available biomass are scattered in remote areas and the cost of transportation to collect them is high.
At the same time, there is a lack of information among producers about the economic benefits of CBE (e.g. through the creation of cooperative energy communities), as well as about the environmental and quality of life co-benefits (e.g. addressing water shortage in Lesvos). As a conclusion, there is a complex interplay of challenges for the development of CBE in the RoNA.
At the end of the discussion, the group concluded that the awareness raising campaigns towards the producers, the promotion of collective actions for the adoption of circular practices, the identification of financial tools as well as the networking with investors, must be furthered with greater intensity.
The Greek MTF is expected to hold a total of six progress meetings throughout RIBES lifetime. Of these, three will be hybrid (both in person and online) in order for project’s outcomes to be highlighted.
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Regional Inclusive Biobased Entrepreneurship Solutions, or RIBES, is a project that seeks to transition ten European regions to dynamic, circular economic models that foster social innovation. It is funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement No. 101134911.