Porto, Portugal and Terceira Island, Azores – December 13th, 2023: IncBio is proud to celebrate the successful conclusion of the MAR4TERRA project, an innovative initiative focused on transforming macroalgae and agro-food waste into bio-conditioners for the pastures of the Azores. The project, which began in 2021, concluded with a final event hosted by SustainUtility at TERINOV on Terceira Island, where the results of this pioneering project were presented.
As a key partner in the project, IncBio provided crucial technology and engineering services that enabled the processing of local raw materials into high-value biofertilizers. Our role included supplying specialized equipment for crushing and milling bones, and a bioreactor for enzymatic hydrolysis of bone mill and macroalgae. Additionally, IncBio’s expertise was central to the laboratory work that developed the biofertilizer component, as well as the pilot production of biofertilizers used in field trials led by the University of the Azores.
The results presented at the final event highlighted the technical and economic viability of using macroalgae and agro-food waste as bio-conditioners. The trials showed that replacing chemical fertilizers with the biofertilizers developed during MAR4TERRA had no negative impact on the quantity or quality of milk produced by cows grazing on pastures treated with the biofertilizer. In fact, in spring, when grass growth is at its peak, the animals produced more, demonstrating the effectiveness of the biofertilizers in supporting sustainable agriculture.
IncBio’s cutting-edge technology was instrumental in realizing this innovative solution, which has the potential to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers in the Azores, supporting local agriculture and contributing to a circular economy. The pilot biorefinery constructed as part of the project represents a scalable model that can be expanded to other remote regions, further advancing sustainability efforts.
The conclusion of the MAR4TERRA project underscores the importance of bio-based solutions in supporting the sustainable development of the Azores’ agricultural sector. IncBio is proud to have contributed to this impactful project and looks forward to continuing its role in driving innovation and sustainability in biorefinery technology.