On Thursday, 4 September 2025, BioFairNet took the stage at the International Conference on Environmental Science and Technology (CEST 2025), hosting the workshop Energy Recovery from Waste in Room Panacea at 11:30 a.m. As one of Europe’s leading environmental science forums, CEST provides a unique platform where researchers, innovators, and policy actors converge to exchange solutions for a more sustainable future. BioFairNet’s contribution to this year’s programme highlighted how waste valorisation can become a cornerstone of the green and just transition.
Turning Residues into Resources
The session 8: Energy Recovery from Waste, explored cuttingedge strategies for transforming agricultural and industrial residues into renewable energy, advanced biofuels, and highvalue bioproducts. Presenters showcased how emerging technologies are reshaping waste management, shifting from linear disposal models to regenerative, circular systems.
Discussions emphasised the growing maturity of thermochemical, biochemical, and hybrid conversion pathways, and how these solutions can be deployed in carbonintensive regions to reduce emissions while strengthening local economies.
BioFairNet Insights: Digital Tools for a Fair Bioeconomy
Drawing on the work of the BioFairNet project, the workshop highlighted how advanced green technologies and digital decisionsupport tools are accelerating the shift toward circular and biobased economies. By identifying carbonintensive hotspots, mapping regional biomass potential, and supporting fair access to innovation, BioFairNet helps communities navigate the complexities of the green transition.
Speakers underscored that energyfromwaste is not only an environmental solution, it is a socioeconomic opportunity. When deployed responsibly, waste valorisation can:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Create new value chains and local jobs
- Support regional resilience and diversification
- Bridge digital and socioeconomic divides
- Empower communities to participate in the bioeconomy
A Pillar of the Green and Just Transition
The workshop reaffirmed that energy recovery from waste is poised to become a key pillar of Europe’s climate and circularity ambitions. By integrating technological innovation with fairness, accessibility, and communitydriven approaches, BioFairNet contributes to a transition that is not only green, but just.
BioFairNet extends its warm thanks to the CEST organisers and community for fostering a space where science, policy, and practice come together to shape impactful environmental solutions.
