ReJuice

Context

In 2018, nearly 17 million tons of plant-based residual streams were produced in the border region, but technical and regulatory challenges currently limit valuable applications. By striving for a continuous supply and high-quality processing of residual streams throughout the year, the ReJuice project aims to enable more efficient use of these resources.

Building on the previous results of the Grassification project (Interreg 2 Seas), ReJuice focuses on technical feasibility research and the applicability of the liquid fraction of green residual streams. The juice streams make up to 40% of the total weight and often contain many high-value molecules (nutrients, agrochemicals, or chemical building blocks) that can be valorized. By utilizing the entire biomass, the valorization of green residual streams can become more efficient, of higher quality, and thus more sustainable.

Aim of the project

The project's main goal is to develop at least three sustainable and economically viable value chains for processing and reusing the liquid fraction from green residual streams. The project focuses not only on roadside grass clippings and regular grass but also on other common green residuals such as tomato stems, leek waste, flower stems, and duckweed. This involves the reuse (Re) of juice streams (Juice), as well as a more efficient use of raw materials (Rejuice = Reduce).

Sub-goals include developing a green residue calendar, optimizing the refining process and potential products in various application areas (namely alternative proteins, microalgae, biodegradable plastics (PHA plastic), biofertilizers, and biogas), improving logistics, testing fermentation techniques, and applying for end-of-waste status. ReJuice also aims to bridge knowledge institutions, industry, government, and citizens through co-creation clusters and an advisory board. The opportunities for a circular and bio-based economy, as well as the importance of achieving climate goals, make this project crucial for both Flanders and the Netherlands.