AGRO.Build.ER – Developing a circular AGRO-waste value chain for sustainable BUILDing sector and rural-urban synergies in Emilia-Romagna (Italy)

Call | RURBANIVE Open Call

Project duration | November 2025 – October 2026

Agro-waste | Materials | Recycling | Construction

Objective | Agricultural production is key to the European circular bioeconomy, yet farmers remain underrepresented in bio-based value chains, with limited economic benefits from waste valorisation. The AGRO.Build.ER project tackles this gap by developing fair, sustainable business models that integrate agro-waste into high-performance bio-based building materials, creating new economic opportunities for rural producers in Emilia Romagna and strengthening rural urban synergies and regional circular bioeconomy development.

The project will demonstrate the feasibility and market potential of these materials, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2024/3110 of the European Parliament, while implementing a Digital Material Passport (DMP) for enhancing supply chain transparency. Validation in Emilia-Romagna will ensure scalability and replication across Europe. Expected outcomes include 3 validated bio-based components, an operational DMP, policy recommendations to support bio-based material adoption, and a business model to ensure long-term market adoption.

CETMA’s role | CETMA, the lead partner, will develop, test and prototype three bio-based building materials (lightweight concrete, mortar) and/or components (blocks/panels) using agro-waste streams selected in the project.

Partnership | CETMA (IT), Lead partner; Levery Srl Società Benefit (IT); Agrifood Clust-ER (IT)

Status | On-going