Project – PAT 2030

BLUEVALSTEP

Valorisation of Marine Co-products in Blue Biotechnology

BLUEVALSTEP

What is it about?

The BLUEVALSTEP is a strategic study focused on mapping and characterising the national innovation system in Blue Biotechnology. The project is specifically dedicated to the valorisation of marine co-products (such as skins, bones, and viscera), transforming what was previously waste into high value-added resources.

This project operates at the interface between science and the market, analysing technologies with a high level of maturity (TRL 4 to 9) to ensure that Portugal fully leverages its marine potential in alignment with the new Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP).

Why is that?

Economic Potential: Blue biotechnology is expected to be worth €200 billion globally by 2030. In Portugal, the valorisation of co-products could generate up to €14 billion per year.
National Advantage: Portugal has one of the largest Exclusive Economic Zones in the world and the greatest marine biodiversity in Europe, but it needs to convert this resource into industrial sovereignty.
European Autonomy: It is essential to reduce external dependence on critical raw materials. The study focuses on clean technologies (fermentation, biorefining, biosensors) that promote the green transition and the circular economy.
Effective Public Policies: There is a gap in the economic classification (CAE) for these technologies. The project addresses this by creating tools to ensure that European funds (Portugal 2030) are allocated where they generate the greatest impact.

Goals

Mapping of Capabilities: Identify who does what in Portugal, from research (R&D) to industrial infrastructure for the valorisation of co-products.
Value Chains: Analyse the entire pathway — from the collection of fishery waste to the creation of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or bioplastics.
STEP Taxonomy: Develop a technical-economic “dictionary” to properly classify and support blue biotechnology companies within public policies.
Monitoring Model: Create indicators to measure, in real time, the growth and impact of this sector on the national economy.
Evidence for Policymakers: Produce robust data to help the Government and European institutions design more effective incentives and financial support mechanisms.