AGRIfood by-product for enhanced sustainable Human hEAlth and pLanT defense

The sustainability of agricultural and agri-food productions has become a central theme both nationally and internationally. In recent years, research has increasingly dedicated resources to developing innovative solutions to reduce food waste. One of the most promising approaches is the "circular economy," which aims to reintegrate agricultural and agri-food by-products and waste into the production cycle. In this context, attention is focusing on the possibility of reusing agricultural and agri-food waste through advanced extraction techniques and the use of eco-friendly solvents. This approach not only saves on disposal costs but also enhances the value of bioactive compounds present in the waste, which can be used in various industries such as agriculture, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The initiative aligns fully with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, eliminating the costs of waste disposal and transforming them into a valuable resource for companies and the territory. This approach has clear advantages in terms of economic, social, and environmental sustainability. AGRIHEALTH project aims to valorize waste from mountain agricultural and agri-food crops using innovative extraction techniques and eco-friendly solvents to obtain high-value bioactive molecules. These molecules can be used to formulate new products such as plant protection products, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. Among the project's main objectives are identifying the main waste products in agri-food supply chains, developing sustainable extraction methodologies, characterizing the extracted components, and evaluating their potential applications in various sectors. Additionally, the project aims to recover any residues from the natural ingredient production process, particularly liquors, to further reduce waste in a circular economy perspective. Expected outcomes include the development of efficient and sustainable extraction methodologies, identification of new sources of functional ingredients for various industries, and reduction of waste and costs associated with the disposal of agricultural, agri-food, and plant protection product production waste. Therefore, the project aims to contribute to the transition towards a circular and sustainable economy in the agri-food sector. Establishing a cross-border partnership between Italy and Switzerland for this research project would be highly advantageous. Both countries have a long tradition in agriculture and the agri-food industry, enabling the exchange of experiences and best practices. Moreover, Italy and Switzerland offer a variety of agricultural and environmental landscapes, ensuring broader access to resources and scientific expertise. Involving both countries can lead to a greater diversity of applications for bioactive molecules extracted from agricultural waste, promoting the development of new products and technologies. Cross-border collaboration can also promote sustainability regionally and internationally by addressing common challenges related to agricultural waste management and adopting sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, a united front through cross-border collaboration can enhance the project's political strength, facilitating access to funding and political support from national and international authorities. In conclusion, valorizing agricultural waste through the extraction of bioactive components represents a significant opportunity to improve the sustainability of the agri-food sector and reduce environmental impacts. AGRIHEALTH project represents an important step towards this goal through the development of innovative methodologies and the identification of new application opportunities for the extracted components. Thanks to a partnership between cutting-edge research centers and companies poised for immediate technology transfer, the project proposal represents an outstanding opportunity for economic growth. It aims to enhance the re-use of resources within the two cooperating territories and foster the development of collaborative start-ups in the mountainous region covered by the program.