DESUWOW: Development of professional Skills for the use of Urban solid Wastes and Organic Wastes in agricultural

With the rapidly growing global population, the demand for energy and efficient waste disposal is increasing daily. One of the most effective solutions to address waste management challenges and reduce greenhouse gas emissions is the production of alternative energy from biomass, agricultural waste, and the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW). Biomass energy production offers significant potential to create new employment opportunities, boost incomes, and support rural development.

In 2012, Europe’s biomass energy sector generated a turnover of at least €33 billion and employed over 374,800 people, making it a critical contributor to the EU’s energy policy. Recognizing its importance, the European Commission sees biomass energy as a key element in achieving the EU’s 2020 targets. The Renewable Energy Directive (RED) (2009/28/EU) sets a binding target of 20% final energy consumption from renewable sources by 2020, aiming for 250 TWh of electricity to be generated from biomass alone. The total renewable energy share across the EU is projected to reach 1370 TWh.

Looking ahead, energy production from biomass is expected to almost double by 2030 according to future scenarios outlined in [SWD (2014) 259]. The Energy Roadmap 2050 also sets ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80-95% by 2050. However, despite its potential, biomass energy production remains underutilized in Europe due to technological and economic constraints.

DESUWOW Project Objectives:

• Identify and analyze targeted needs and competencies,
• Develop an innovative and modern training program,
• Implement targeted pilot trials and develop transferred e-learning content,
• Build new professional skills related to biomass energy,
• Promote the EU’s renewable energy (RES) objectives,
• Raise awareness and foster innovation in waste reuse across the EU,
• Encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment in rural areas,
• Support rural quality of life improvements and reduce migration,
• Promote environmental awareness.

The project also presents a strong opportunity to establish long-term partnerships between the United Kingdom, Turkey, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Portugal, facilitating the transfer of good practices and innovations in renewable energy strategies, particularly regarding biomass energy, waste management, and sustainable farming practices in both rural and urban environments.

Project Outputs and Implementation:

The concrete results and achievements of our project are as follows;
-IO1(Training Kit) and IO2(Handbook)
-Project website
-Sustainability Plan
-Impact and Evaluation Report
-Project Management Plan
-5 International Meetings
-6 multiplier events held on a national scale
-46 field visits
-Dissemination products
-3 projects to be submitted in the field of KA220/VET and KA210/VET within the scope of Erasmus+ Grant Program