research
Bioeconomy Systems
Integrating circular design, renewable energy, and digital tools to build a carbon-neutral bioeconomy.
Our Mission
Designing a Truly Circular Bioeconomy
At BiOrbic, we’re developing systems that make the bioeconomy sustainable, efficient and data-driven. This pillar focuses on redesigning how biological resources are produced and used, ensuring materials, energy and information flow responsibly through every part of the system.
By creating circular, low-carbon processes, we aim to build bio-based industries that are regenerative and help Ireland move toward a carbon-neutral future.
Research Programmes
What Research is BiOrbic Doing?
The Bioeconomy Systems pillar focuses on three major challenges: Circular Bioeconomy Design, Powering the Bioeconomy, and Digitalising the Bioeconomy. Together, these areas provide a roadmap for a low-waste, carbon-neutral future.
bioeconomy systems
Circular Bioeconomy Design
This challenge brings circular thinking into practice. Researchers are combining advances in farming, waste, and materials to reduce resource pressure and support sustainable food and material systems.
key research areas
Apply circular economy principles in real-world systems
Reduce land and resource use through process optimisation
Develop indicators to measure circularity and sustainability
active Projects
ABSOLUTE
Analysis of Biofilm-Solid Interactions Underpinning Wastewater Treatment
AMADEUS
Accelerating biofilm Matrix dispersion with Deep Eutectic Solvents
BIO-2-PRINT
From waste to worth: Building a value chain for underutilized natural fibres as feedstock in 3D printing
Enrich Environmental: Microalgae For The Valorisation Of Nutrient-Rich Wastewater From Compost Manufacturing
How to create a circular system in the agricultural sector and how to maximise productivity from terrestrial agriculture systems. This project aims to develop a scalable microalgae biotechnology solution for the valorisation of compost manufacture wastewater (or leachate or runoff) from Enrich Environmental primary production site at Kilcock, Ireland.
Optimising AD with pig-derived feedstocks at lab-scale
Targeting both energy and Algae. Subsequent translation to farm scale at Lyons.
Optimising Algae production with feedstock from AD at lab-scale
Optimization of large-scale cultivation of microalgae on Anaerobic Digestate to minimise or eliminate soybean from the pig diet in order to reduce the pressure on land resources used for soybean production allowing for soil regeneration, while strenghtening the sustainability and commercial viability of Anaerobic Digestion
Rural BioReFarmeries
Green BioReFarmeries - Small-scale Circular Green Biorefineries for increasing farmer sustainability and competitiveness and building resilient rural areas
SusAlgaeFuel
Exploring the synergies between direct carbon-capture, nutrient recovery and next-generation purification technologies for cost-competitive and sustainable microalgal aviation fuel
TenConnecT
Innovative ways to maximize the intra-regional benefits of TEN-T corridors
impact
Why This Research Matters
The bioeconomy is central to a sustainable future. Through renewable energy, circular design and digital innovation, BiOrbic research helps reduce emissions, minimise waste and regenerate natural systems.
Cut Waste and Emissions
Transform industries to reduce greenhouse gases and material loss.
Design for Circularity
Reuse materials, energy and data across systems.
Power Sustainably
Run the bioeconomy on renewable, carbon-neutral energy.
Harness Digital Innovation
Use data and technology to boost efficiency and transparency.
Strategic Alignment
Aligned with Key EU Targets
This pillar supports Ireland’s transition to a circular, low-emission economy in line with major EU objectives.
