In 2024, the DAIRY+ project partnership significantly promoted a circular bioeconomy model for the dairy supply chain in the cross-border area between Italy and Slovenia. The project, co-funded by the Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia Programme, focused on innovative solutions for valorizing dairy by-products, particularly whey, aiming to reduce waste and create new business opportunities for dairies on both sides of the border.
KEY ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT
Mapping of the Dairy Supply Chain
The production flows and management of by-products in the cross-border area were analyzed, with a focus on sustainable reuse opportunities for whey.
An initial mapping of the value chain was developed, identifying best practices and replicable circular economy models.
Stakeholder Engagement
The Cross-Border Stakeholder Group (CBSG) was created and activated, bringing together actors in the dairy supply chain committed to supporting the transition to a circular economy.
The CBSG held its first meeting last November, also attended by some producers from the sector.
Capacity Building
Guidelines for a common capacity-building program were developed to support companies in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto, and Slovenia in managing dairy by-products more sustainably.
The planning of informational events and study visits began, aimed at transferring knowledge to operators on new valorization technologies.
Research and Experimentation
The design of a pilot action to recover and concentrate the protein fraction of whey was initiated.
The potential of transforming whey into new functional products was analyzed.
In 2025, DAIRY+ will enter a crucial phase with the launch of the pilot action, a key step to test innovative solutions and promote a more sustainable dairy system. At the same time, the project will continue to strengthen awareness and training for operators, developing a best practices manual and enhancing communication activities to disseminate results and encourage replicability.
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