NATURE+ RECYCLE: Boosting circular bioeconomies for people and nature. Work package highlights 2022-2024

CGIAR’s NATURE+ Initiative’s work package RECYCLE pioneered research-based circular bioeconomy (CBE) practices to transform agricultural and food waste into sustainable solutions. Operating in five countries—Burkina Faso, Colombia, India, Kenya, and Vietnam—the program combines scientific innovation with local engagement to promote nature-positive farming and sustainable livelihoods.

Key achievements include the incentivizing and training of Black Soldier Fly farming for organic fertilizer and animal feed, biochar production, waste-to-energy solutions and sustainable economic activity. RECYCLE’s Circular Bioeconomy Innovation Hubs and innovation challenges united entrepreneurs, policymakers, and smallholders to scale sustainable practices in alignment with national environmental goals.

Looking ahead, RECYCLE will expand under CGIAR’s Research Portfolio 2025-2030. By enhancing research, fostering policy adoption, and scaling innovations, the initiative aims to address global waste challenges, strengthen food systems, and build climate-resilient economies in several additional countries.

Please read our RECYCLE work package report here: NATURE+ RECYCLE 2022-2023