Bioboost-Pro - Atlantic Technological University

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using water-based nutrient solutions. This technique helps diversify food systems and improves space and water efficiency. However, it relies heavily on petrochemical fertilisers, which are imported from outside Europe and contain finite resources like phosphorus and energy-intensive nutrients like nitrogen.

At the same time, essential nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen are lost in non-recycled manure. Livestock farmers are also seeking ways to process animal manure in compliance with local legislation and the EU Nitrate Directive.

A promising solution to these issues is bioponics, which involves growing crops using organic fertilisers derived from manure. The BIOBOOST-PRO project addresses the challenges of adopting bioponics in Northwestern Europe. It aims to support stakeholders in the hydroponic sector to transition from a linear value chain reliant on petrochemical fertilisers to a circular one that uses organic fertilisers from manure. This approach reduces manure pollution and conserves valuable nutrients.

BIOBOOST-PRO involves 12 partners and 16 associated organizations. They will establish 11 pilot projects using organic fertilisers from fish, poultry, and pig manure. The project will also develop business models, a methodology for territorial strategy development, and a comprehensive toolkit for value chain stakeholders. These outcomes will facilitate replication and widespread adoption across Europe and beyond.

BIOBOOST-PRO started on 11 December 2024 and will run for 4.5 years. It is co-financed by Interreg North-West Europe, with a total budget of €4.9 million.

Project funded by Interreg North-West Europe

Partners

Logos of 13 agricultural and biotech organisations arranged in two rows.

Image description: A collage of logos representing 12 organisations and institutions involved in agriculture, horticulture, and biotechnology. The logos are displayed in two rows within a rounded rectangular frame. Featured entities include Inagro, Liège Université Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, Hochschule Trier, IfaS, Astredhor, Groupe One, Cill Ulta, Kompetenzzentrum Niedersachsen, 3N, Atlantic Technological University, Botany Indoor Agro R&D, the Province of Antwerp Experimental Poultry Centre, and Université de Picardie Jules Verne.

Contact

Aurora Dimache aurora.dimache@atu.ie

David Gorman david.gorman@atu.ie