Waste2Wealth

The initial situation

Agriculture is a key economic sector in Georgia and makes a substantial contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. However, agricultural residues are usually recycled in the traditional way, which often leads to improper disposal and pollution. A sustainable conversion of these residual materials into organic products could not only reduce environmental damage but also support Georgia's sustainable development targets. Although the Georgian government is already working on initiatives to promote environmentally friendly bio-production, such as the production of biofuels, there is a lack of modern technologies and expertise to implement these projects effectively. Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI) emphasises the need for a supportive concept to promote the bioproduct sector. Targeted capacity building is decisive for the implementation of sustainable practices in the agricultural sector and for the promotion of international cooperation.

The approach

The Waste2Wealth project is aiming to improve the agricultural situation in Georgia and involve German technology companies in the organic production field. A central element of the project is the Digital LERNHAUS, which was developed specifically for the transfer of knowledge and experience and provides Georgian partner organisations with access to German expertise. In addition, a promotional container will be installed in Georgia to present key technologies for the manufacture of organic products and to provide direct access to innovative solutions.

The objectives and measures

The Waste2Wealth project aims to develop the unused potential of agricultural waste in Georgia for the manufacture of organic products through the international transfer of knowledge and experience. One key measure is the establishment of a digital platform that offers Georgian partner organisations permanent access to German expertise and innovative technologies through formats such as short films, 360-degree photos and interactive quizzes. Another core issue is the installation of an advertising container that presents key technologies for the manufacture of organic products and provides direct access to these technologies. In cooperation with local partners, up to four agricultural residues with the greatest recycling potential are to be identified and, based on this potential, product-oriented recycling chains are to be mapped out. Knowledge is transferred by means of digital training courses using a train-the-trainer approach, with a focus on the technical and organisational aspects of waste recycling. A planned whitebook will contain market information and concepts for the implementation of bioproduct lines and offer a roadmap for the promotion of Georgian-German technology transfer. In addition, the project aims to reduce the carbon footprint of agriculture and diversify energy production, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).