The Interreg-project “Bridging the Gap between Research and Education in the Circular Bioeconomy” (BREC) was dedicated to tackling some of the challenges associated with the transition from a linear to a circular economy. In the agricultural sector, there had been vast technological development creating the issue of “analysis paralysis.” This phenomenon occurred when numerous new technologies were introduced at the same time, creating a dilemma for effective decision-making. BREC identified several key technologies - such as biogas production, protein extraction, phosphorus extraction, nitrogen enrichment, biochar production, and their accompanying pre- and post-treatment processes - that were central to the shift towards a circular economy.

Through a collaborative effort involving an international team of researchers and educators, one of our primary goals was to create an information bank detailing how the different technologies could effectively address specific agricultural challenges. This resource served as a comprehensive toolkit, benefiting agricultural schools in educating the next generation of farmers and also catering to seasoned practitioners, advisers, and farmers associations.

Additionally, BREC aimed to propose at least one innovative biorefinery concept that could serve as a demonstrative platform, showcasing the practical application and synergies between these varied technologies.

Our belief was that by disseminating knowledge and sharing firsthand experience concerning these new technologies, we could mitigate the challenges of analysis paralysis. Empowering the upcoming generation of farmers with exposure to the technologies was a central part of this initiative. Through BREC, our aspiration was for agricultural schools across Europe to have the opportunity to showcase what circular bioeconomy meant in practice.