Proposals under this topic should:

• Demonstrate feasibility and viability of a full-scale biorefinery model converting bio-waste (as defined above) into added value products. Approaches exploiting synergies with existing waste management infrastructures, including separate collection of targeted bio-waste, and of urban-industrial symbiosis (upstream and/or downstream) are in scope.
• Demonstrate the production of safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD) added-value bio-based products, minimising the generation of waste.
• Address logistics aspects (including separate bio-waste collection, proximity to urban areas, etc) influencing the economic viability and social acceptance of the value chain.

In addition to the specific requirements applicable for the type of action, as described in section 2.2.3.1 of the CBE JU Annual Work Programme 2025, proposals under this topic should:

• Include a task to apply the safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD) framework, developed by the European Commission. Under this context, projects are expected to also contribute with and develop recommendations that can advance further the application of the SSbD framework.
• As part of the multi-actor approach (MAA), ensure adequate involvement of all key actors in the value chains relevant for this topic and across the sustainable circular bio-based system, including bio-waste management operators, local/regional authorities, policy makers, citizens/consumers’ representatives, bio-based process developers/biorefineries.
• Include a task to address the regulatory framework aspects related to the use of bio-waste streams and their conversion to end products, with particular reference to the end of waste criteria to ensure future marketability of the developed products.
• Include a task to perform an assessment of social involvement and long-term benefits, including local employment, potential reduction of waste management charges, lower pollution, products and/or services and/or revenues received back from the biorefinery(ies).
• Identify region(s)/area(s) in EU/EEA/EFTA countries and associated countries (ACs) with high unexploited potential for such industrial/urban symbiotic approach (e.g., where bio-waste from municipalities is not separately collected and/or not properly valorised, or there are options applied which are low in the waste hierarchy, i.e. incineration and landfilling). Include a task to assess the implementation in the selected region(s)/area(s) of the solutions developed in the flagship, taking into account local/regional conditions and the regulatory framework.