Project information
Multi-commodities & sustainable microbial-driven BiOrefinery based on food-processing industry wastes, biogenic CO2 and bioprocess wastewaters (GoodByO)

Examining the Eurostat data for the third and fourth quarters of 2022 , it becomes evident that the manufacturing industry takes the lead in terms of CO2 emissions in Europe, with an average of about 195 million tonnes of CO2 produced. To address this critical environmental challenge, the spread of bioindustries emerges as a potent solution, leveraging biogenic organic residues and CO2-based feedstocks to pave the way for emission reductions within the manufacturing sector. In this context, the emergence of integrated multipurpose biorefineries, exemplified by the visionary concept proposed by the GoodByO project, carries profound implications. The potential impact of these biorefineries will strongly impact on the ambitious EU targets of reducing net GHG emissions by at least 55% by 2030 (compared to 1990). We need to transform biorefineries in biofactory of new generation! By applying the cascading use principle and exploiting the metabolic diversity of microbial catalysts, multiple innovative value chains could be obtained from one starting feedstock. It is time to include in the biorefinery concept the mandatory valorization of the biogenic CO2 and of the wastewaters generated, as valuable substrates for the development of further manufacturing processes within the biorefinery. Embracing this vision not only addresses the environmental footprint of the biorefinery itself but transcends it. A noteworthy facet to consider is that bioprocesses based on organic carbon sources, inevitably yield CO2 as a product of microbial metabolism. GoodByO concept fuels a fundamental shift in perspective. Old biorefineries are often not providing good footprint (carbon neutral and/or carbon negative), GoodByO will design a new generation biorefinery that focuses mainly on filling the "C" gap by including a significant proportion of carbon utilizing technologies. The call to action is clear: it is time to break the mold, to transcend the conventional boundaries of possibilities, and to leverage the potent amalgamation of cutting-edge science and strategic vision. This transformative stance not only aligns with the imperative of emission reduction but propels us towards a future where the biorefinery landscape stands not as a mere mitigator but as a catalyst for a sustainable, regenerative tomorrow.