WHAT IS CREIAMO Project?
The project “Creiamo – Circular economy in olive oil and wine sectors. Valorization of by-products and residues through innovative processes and new business models” brings to light a very contemporary issue on the international politic and economic agenda: how applying the principles of circular economy to agricolture, with focus on wine and oil supply chain, two of the most important agricultural activities in the world.
The objectives are fully consistent with the areas requested by the call of:
“Design and development of new material, products and processes fostering a shift towards innovative and sustainable organization models”
“Foster the use of organic and inorganic waste as well as their transformation in products characterized by high added value”
OBJECTIVES
First main objective: to boost the creation of new destinations for residues originated by olive oil and wine production, new option for their economic valorization, new business models to increase the competitiveness of companies operating in the Lombardia Region.
Development of a new biological strategy to produce bio-surfactants using wastes derived from the olive oil and wine production
Definition of the operating procedures to use the bio-surfactants for the remediation of contaminated soil
Assessment of the impact of the processes and products through LCA studies
Promotion of cross-sectorial synergies among the companies
A next aim is to create a Research and Development network to integrate, link and enhance knowledge in research and innovation. The opportunity is good for young researchers and fosters communication and interaction between researchers and civil society, embracing the principles of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI).
STRATEGIES
First main objective: to boost the creation of new destinations for residues originated by olive oil and wine production, new option for their economic valorization, new business models to increase the competitiveness of companies operating in the Lombardia Region.
A multi-disciplinary approach has leaded to integrate different perspectives, from microbiology, chemistry, food science, ecotoxicology, economics, industrial design, and engineering.

Process and product eco-innovation strategy
Residues generated by wine and oil production could be used to treat contaminated soil
Systemic eco-innovation through industrial symbiosis (IS) strategy
The IS aims to create mutual economic and environmental benefits by sharing resources
EXPECTED OUTPUTS
- Creation of awareness among stakeholders concerning circular economy;
- Identification and development of innovative processes for the production of high added values products (bio-surfactants);
- Identification and development of innovative processes for the environmental use (treatment of contaminated soil) of bio-surfactants;
- Cooperation between companies through the implementation of industrial symbiosis;
- Training and involvement of young researchers;
- Development of the project and the dissemination activities;