The Challenge
Biogenic CO₂ emissions—originating from biomass-based processes like fermentation and biogas production—are often released into the atmosphere, despite their high purity and potential value. In a circular bioeconomy, this carbon should not be wasted.
CERNET addresses this challenge by capturing and converting biogenic CO₂ into valuable bio-based products.
This approach not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also replaces fossil-based inputs, supports industrial symbiosis, and transforms waste into a resource—paving the way for a more sustainable and climate-neutral Europe.
Our Approach
CERNET combines cutting-edge technologies to capture, convert and utilise biogenic CO₂. Using oxyhydrogen fermentation, thermo-catalytic and microbial conversion, the project transforms CO₂ into valuable bio-based products like PHA, L-alanine and ectoine. Mobile capture units, green hydrogen from electrolysis, and advanced purification methods ensure efficient, scalable processes. Integrated with renewable energy, CERNET’s approach supports circularity, industrial symbiosis and climate neutrality.
Project objectives
CERNET’s overarching goal is to demonstrate and scale up carbon capture and conversion technologies across three industrial demonstrators. Specific objectives include:
- Developing safe and sustainable-by-design (SSbD) frameworks for bio-based value chains.
- Integrating renewable energy and green hydrogen into conversion processes.
- Validating high-value bio-based products such as L-alanine, sorbitol, malic acid, ectoine, and PHA.
- Ensuring traceability, circularity, and low environmental impact across the entire value chain.
- Creating business models and replication strategies to scale solutions across Europe.
- Engaging stakeholders and citizens through co-creation and dissemination activities
KPIs
1. Demonstration Sites
- Three industrial sites testing different carbon conversion technologies.
- Focus on fermentation, thermo-catalytic conversion, and purification systems.
2. Work Packages (WP)
- WP1: Management & Coordination
- WP2: Baseline Assessment & SSbD Framework
- WP3–WP5: Technology Development & Demonstration
- WP6: Sustainability Assessment
- WP7: Business Models & Replication
- WP8: Communication, Dissemination & Exploitation
3. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Targets for CO₂ capture, product yields, purity levels, stakeholder engagement, and replication metrics.
4. Expected Impact
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Improved resource efficiency and circularity.
- Contribution to EU climate neutrality goals.