One of the main goals of the project was to introduce the bioeconomy to both the professional and lay public. Each partner country selected several examples of good practice and they are published both in English and in national versions. Information brochures were also created from this set. Both of these materials were and are available not only online, but are also printed and distributed at various events, including international fairs. If we have feedback on social networks, their creation and content are very well evaluated by the public.
The activity aimed to encourage citizens to actively participate in the bioeconomy not only as consumers, but also as producers of everyday bio-based products at home. To support this, instructions for making various home-made bio-based products were developed, translated into national languages, and used during workshops. Workshops were organized in each country, engaging at least 40 citizens per country in hands-on production of bio-based products. Tutorial videos and educational materials created during the workshops were disseminated via YouTube, the project website, and social media.
Each workshop followed a structured agenda. It began with a short introduction to the BIOECO-UP project, outlining its goals, objectives, and relevance to the bioeconomy. This was followed by an introduction to the bioeconomy concept and bio-based materials, including their benefits, production, and use, supported by relevant data. Participants were then informed about the differences between producing products for personal use and for commercial purposes, with a focus on legal requirements and basic business considerations. The core activity involved hands-on production of home-made bio-based products, followed by closing remarks encouraging continued engagement in sustainable, bio-based production. At the end Instructions for homemade biobased products were made as guidelines and step-by-step processes for creating everyday items using natural, renewable, and biodegradable materials. These products are alternatives to conventional items made from synthetic or petroleum-based materials, which are often non-renewable and can be harmful to the environment. The aim of biobased products was to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, minimize environmental impact, and promote sustainability.
Another important area covered by the project are the so-called living labs. Again, products that are created using bioeconomic and biotechnological processes were selected. Individual products were tested not only by consortium members, but also by the public and feedback was collected. For example, tin can packaging, the inner surface of which was treated with a biofilm made from tomato residues, another example is waste bags made from biodegradable material or insulation materials made from technical hemp. Following the living labs, national round tables were organized, where interested parties had the opportunity to learn about these products and possibly establish business ties with manufacturers. The emphasis was placed not only on the national level, but above all on international cooperation. The project also tried to network and share information with interested business people, including the fact that participants from all partner countries had the opportunity to visit bioeconomy-oriented companies in Italy. The event met with great interest and the good response is also evidenced by a number of videos and comments made.
Our achievements are now gathered in one accessible place on the project website and the BIOEAST Knowledge Platform. Discover our knowledge and become part of the bioeconomy’s future!
- Collection of information sheets Bioeconomy in CE Europe
- https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NEtfa7ycjGsYNnH4Y9CelTpHn_kk2fna?usp=drive_link
- Eco Friendly Living Starts at Home
- Human-centered transnational testing bioeconomy products in living labs by citizens