Borregaard, a Norwegian company, has received funding from the Circular Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) to develop innovative, bio-based solutions to replace toxic fossil-based pesticides. The project, called Cropsafe, aims to create cost-effective alternatives for agricultural settings. A consortium of companies, research institutes, and universities will work together to develop bio-based substitutes for chemical pesticides using raw materials like lignin-based biopolymers from Norwegian spruce, algae, and spent coffee grounds. Borregaard will lead the development of products and processes related to bio-based chemicals. Trials have shown that these solutions can increase yields by up to 20% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75%. The company has high expectations for the project, which has the potential to enhance sustainability in farming and increase food production worldwide. With up to 40% of global food crops lost to pests and diseases each year, the need for alternative solutions is pressing. The Cropsafe project offers a promising solution to reduce dependence on harmful crop protection chemicals and promote environmentally friendly agriculture.
European Union backing for biological pest management in agricultural production
