One of the key discussions at this event will be the panel titled: «Reviving Rural Areas through Circular Bioeconomy Approaches: Concrete Examples and Recommendations for EU Policymakers.» We are thrilled to announce that Maider, representing the BRILIAN Project, will be a featured speaker, offering valuable insights into how circular bioeconomy can breathe new life into rural areas through innovative, cooperative business models.

Why This Event Matters

Rural areas cover 80% of the EU’s territory and house 30% of its population. However, they often struggle with economic challenges, depopulation, and climate impacts. The event will discuss how circular bioeconomy offers solutions by turning waste into valuable resources. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, it opens new economic pathways and supports rural resilience.

Key topics that will be discussed during the event include:

• Revitalising rural areas by creating new economic opportunities
• Boosting economic resilience through sustainable business models
• Fostering partnerships that strengthen the synergy between rural and urban regions
• Addressing challenges such as rural depopulation, economic inequality, and climate change

BRILIAN’s Contribution to Rural Revitalization

The BRILIAN Project is uniquely positioned to provide real-world examples of how circular bioeconomy models can transform rural communities. By using agricultural residues, by-products, and waste as feedstocks, BRILIAN supports the creation of sustainable cooperative business models that help rural areas thrive economically.

Through its pilot projects in Italy, Spain, and Denmark, BRILIAN demonstrates how these cooperative models can:

• Turn agricultural waste into value-added bioproducts, creating new revenue streams for farmers and local stakeholders
• Enhance biodiversity and reduce pollution
• Promote short, sustainable supply chains that reduce logistics costs and environmental impacts
• Facilitate cooperation between farmers, technology providers, and other key actors.

This event will showcase BRILIAN’s innovative approaches and provide a platform for discussion on how these strategies can be scaled across the EU. Maider will bring insights from BRILIAN’s work, offering policymakers and stakeholders concrete recommendations on how to foster governance and partnerships that will enable circular bioeconomy to drive rural development.

Circular Bioeconomy and the Future of Rural Communities

At a time when rural depopulation and economic disparities are growing concerns, the circular bioeconomy provides a solution that not only supports sustainable agricultural practices but also creates meaningful economic opportunities. By addressing challenges such as the high capital costs of new bio-based technologies, the need for specialized workforce, and the integration of innovative supply chains, BRILIAN offers a roadmap for how rural areas can thrive in a more sustainable and circular economy.

How to Join

Mark your calendar for October 15th to be part of this important conversation about the future of rural development!