Italy at the Heart of a European Green Push
The new Italy sustainable bioproducts project is transforming marginal lands into eco-friendly raw materials. RUNFASTER4EU, launched in July 2025, will modernize two Italian pilot plants in Porto Torres and Crescentino. The project grows oilseed crops on neglected farmland, supplying bio-based ingredients without affecting food production.
© RUNFASTER4EU
From Forgotten Fields to High-Value Products
Over the next five years, RUNFASTER4EU will cultivate low-ILUC-risk crops like safflower across Italy, Greece, Spain, Serbia, and Romania. These crops provide oils and residual biomass for cosmetics, bioplastics, bioherbicides, and polyurethanes used in vertical gardens. Farmers will join large-scale trials, testing new agronomic practices that restore soil health and encourage biodiversity.
A Multi-Country Effort with Italian Leadership
The initiative unites 18 partners from 10 European countries. It receives nearly €20 million in funding from the Circular Bio-Based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). By blending industrial leadership and academic expertise, the project positions Italy as a leader in Europe’s circular bioeconomy.
Why It Matters for Sustainability in Italy
Expanding initiatives like the Italy sustainable bioproducts project could inspire similar programs across Europe. By linking innovation with local communities, Italy shows how agriculture and industry can work together to meet climate goals. These advances also create opportunities for eco-conscious travel, where visitors can see how neglected landscapes are evolving into models for sustainability and circular growth.
Website: https://runfaster4eu.eu
