BioDirect 2.0 Launches to Transform Ireland’s Circular Bioeconomy

A new initiative known as **BioDirect 2.0** has been launched to accelerate the development of the circular bioeconomy in Ireland. Spearheaded by **Stephen Barry-Hannon** at **Munster Technological University (MTU)**, this ambitious project aims to foster collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to drive innovation and sustainability across multiple sectors.

The circular bioeconomy emphasizes the use of renewable biological resources to enhance industrial processes while minimizing waste and pollution. Barry-Hannon describes innovation as a collective endeavor, stating, “Innovation happens when you bring people together.” This project builds on the successes of its predecessor, which engaged over **200 stakeholders** from small to large enterprises, academic institutions, and support organizations.

Goals and Structure of BioDirect 2.0

**BioDirect 2.0** is a **two-year** initiative, supported by **InterTradeIreland’s Synergy Programme**, and coordinated by MTU in partnership with **Ulster University**, **AgriTech Ireland**, and the **Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) Cluster**. The project focuses primarily on four interconnected sectors: agriculture, manufacturing, textiles, and construction. Barry-Hannon believes that breaking down silos between these sectors is essential for realizing the full potential of circular economy practices.

The project includes key partners such as **BioOrbic**, **ClimateKIC**, **Construct Innovate**, **Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR)**, and **Queen’s University Belfast**, among others. Barry-Hannon notes that the aim is to gather diverse perspectives to promote innovative solutions.

Interest in BioDirect 2.0 appears to be growing, with many companies eager to re-engage after the success of the initial project. Barry-Hannon humorously remarked that he had to order extra food at last year’s closing conference due to the high turnout—“a good complaint to have,” he said.

Sector-Specific Innovations and Economic Viability

**Agriculture** is particularly recognized for its potential to contribute to decarbonization. **Kieran O’Donoghue** from AgriTech Ireland emphasized the necessity of linking agriculture with the broader circular bioeconomy. He pointed out that the agri-food sector is responsible for a significant portion of Ireland’s biological resources and plays a critical role in transforming waste into valuable products.

Farmers face increasing demands to enhance production while reducing emissions and protecting biodiversity. O’Donoghue advocates for “smarter resource use, precision farming, and better waste valorisation” as pathways to achieving these objectives. He asserts, “Sustainability must make economic as well as environmental sense,” suggesting that technologies with clear cost benefits are more likely to be adopted.

The **manufacturing sector** also has substantial opportunities for decarbonization. **Caitríona Mordan**, manager of the ATIM Cluster, highlighted that BioDirect exemplifies the interdisciplinary collaboration needed for sustainable manufacturing advancements. She noted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often face challenges in scaling sustainable technologies due to resource limitations and a skills gap.

Mordan emphasized that the transition to a circular economy must also be economically viable, reinforcing the goal of BioDirect to develop profitable innovations that reduce costs and create new revenue streams.

Over the next two years, **BioDirect** will host eight industry roundtables and two policy roundtables, alongside two innovation challenge competitions. Participants will receive guidance and mentorship, with the aim of fostering practical solutions. Last year, **85 solutions** were submitted, one of which was a decision support tool for fertilizer application that uses data and AI to optimize resource use.

A significant takeaway from the first BioDirect project was the need for policy innovations to support the development of circular practices. As a result, policymakers from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will be involved in workshops, and a policy innovation toolbox is being created for participants. The overarching goal is to establish a new policy framework based on insights gained during the project.

**Professor Alison Gault** from Ulster University highlighted the importance of addressing systemic challenges within the textile and fashion industries. Her research emphasizes the need for sustainable material systems and the infrastructural gaps hindering progress. Gault views BioDirect 2.0 as a critical platform for tackling these complex issues collaboratively.

In her view, a shift towards a circular bioeconomy is crucial for moving away from linear manufacturing processes that undervalue natural materials. Gault believes that a culturally aware bioeconomy can enhance regional development and foster connections with local communities.

BioDirect 2.0 offers an opportunity for those interested in contributing to Ireland’s circular bioeconomy to engage in meaningful dialogue and action. For more information or to participate in BioDirect 2.0, interested parties can sign up through the initiative’s official channels.