From September 30 to October 1, 2024, the picturesque High Tatras in Slovakia played host to the 14th International Experts’ Conference, ENVIROMANAGEMENT 2024 (https://nmc.sk/en/enviro2024/). This year’s theme, “MANAGING SOLID WASTE AND RESOURCES PROPERLY . . . failing to plan is planning to fail,” brought together leading experts from 20 European countries to discuss the complexities and challenges faced in the waste and recycling industry.

Among the distinguished speakers, David Robert Newman from the European Bioeconomy Bureau represented the BRILIAN Project. During his presentation titled “Update on EU Policies – The New Europe: What the Brussels landscape is likely to look like,” David highlighted the crucial role that sustainable and cooperative business models play in revitalizing rural areas.

The BRILIAN Project: A Path to Sustainability

The BRILIAN Project aims to support the adoption of sustainable practices in rural communities by valorizing agricultural by-products. This initiative is not only focused on enhancing the income of primary producers but also on contributing to broader goals such as biodiversity preservation and achieving climate neutrality.

Through the establishment of three cooperative pilots that will engage with ten value chains, BRILIAN is set to validate a range of actions for bio-innovation (ABI). These efforts will enable the development of specific cooperative business models that encompass organizational and logistical optimization, while also considering economic, social, and environmental factors through the Optimization Toolkit.

By utilizing biomass to produce food, materials, and energy, BRILIAN seeks to empower rural communities, increase competitiveness, and tackle critical challenges faced by the EU, including climate change, fossil fuel dependency, and food security.

Importance of Networking and Collaboration

ENVIROMANAGEMENT 2024 provided an invaluable platform for networking and collaboration among industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders. The event underscored the significance of sharing knowledge and experiences to develop effective waste and resource management strategies.

David’s participation not only showcased the BRILIAN Project’s commitment to sustainability but also aligned with the goals outlined in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the Green Deal, and the European Bioeconomy Strategy. By transforming primary producers into active players in the supply chain, the BRILIAN Project is paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the insights gained from events like ENVIROMANAGEMENT are crucial for shaping effective policies and practices that support sustainable development in rural areas. The BRILIAN Project remains dedicated to fostering cooperative business models that empower communities and contribute to a circular bioeconomy.

For more information about the BRILIAN Project and our initiatives, visit us!