The bioeconomy as described by Charlie McConalogue T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine is “a new approach to utilising the products, services, wastes and side-streams from sectors such as agri-food, forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture more sustainably. It offers opportunities to reduce GHG emissions in the agri-food system by replacing fossil-based resources with biological alternatives”. The bioeconomy is considered a key element in our agricultural sector’s transition to climate neutrality.
The All Island Bioeconomy Summit was held on the 12th of March in the Tullamore Court Hotel. The summit came at a pivotal time for the sector, bringing all the key stakeholders from across the island together. The theme “Connecting the Bioeconomy” created much debate and was thought provoking, informative and inspiring. This was a Satellite Event of the European Commission Bioeconomy Changemakers Festival.
Speakers included experts in the field nationally and internationally such as Juka Kantola, Founder and CEO, World Bioeconomy Forum, Dr Ian Archer, CEO, BioConnect Ireland, Professor Martin Tangney OBE Founder & President Celtic Renewables, Roger McDermott, Managing Director, Enva, Percy Foster, Managing Director, Foster Environmental, Freya Bartels, Hemp Cooperative Ireland and Prof Kevin O’Connor, BiOrbic.
CAP Network Ireland shared a stand with MTU’s Circular Bioeconomy Research Group where we promoted the Network and the role of primary producers / farmers in the development of the Irish Bioeconomy, in particular we spoke to representatives from the Universities across Ireland, the NTMA, the regional authorities, BioConnect Ireland, the Irish Grown Wool Council and a range of venture capital funds. CAP Network Ireland is committed to support the development of the bioeconomy in Ireland and unlocking opportunities for communities in rural Ireland.
The event also hosted the Irish Bioeconomy Awards, celebrating the hard work, dedication and success of individuals and organisations in the bioeconomy sector on the island of Ireland.
The award categories were:
- Bio Achievement of the Year
The most remarkable achievement, innovation and contribution related to the circular bioeconomy on the island of Ireland. The judges considered the contributions made by organisations, groups or other entities which facilitate the circular bioeconomy. The award was presented to the Carbery Farm ZeroC (a collaboration between Biorbic, MTU & Carbery). To find more details about the project click here.
- Top Bioeconomy Young Talent
The most remarkable young person within the bioeconomy sector. The judges considered and recognised the impact of this individual on the bioeconomy. Declan Colbert from the PRISM Research Institute was successful in receiving the award. To find out more information about Declan click here.
Further information on the All Island Bioeconomy Summit can be found here.