In WP1 the groundwork for stakeholder engagement was established. This included two external advisory bodies (Advisory Board and Testing Panel). Two online webinars and two large f2f industry events were (co-)organised, together attracting more than 1000 stakeholders. Some 20 further industry events were attended.
In WP2 the (Wikipedia-like) set-up and structure of the database was determined and put into place. This included bottom-up development of the database backbone, the selection and use of open-source software, the implementation of data tables and templates and the completion of a full set of initial technology profiles. Furthermore needs and requirements of leading stakeholders were determined and their interest in the technology database confirmed, documented in the feasibility study.
In WP3 a database design-blueprint and scope were developed and validated. Initial efforts in year 1 focused on content, design, functions, structure, and framework of the database. Efforts in year 2 were concentrated on the population and delivery of the database. A plan to recruit external contributors (volunteers) was developed and implemented. Technical scripts (bots) to automatically generate database content were written. To facilitate past and future database contributors, a versatile set of tools and procedures was provided.
WP4 assessed arrangements to maximise the database’s relevance and impact. Project benefits, business models, possibilities for database cross-linking/embedding, and opportunities for cross-financing and public funding were studied. A Benefits Realisation Exercise confirmed that the motivation and approach of the Tech4Biowaste project is well structured and well-thought-out. A Lean Canvas lead to the insights that for long-term sustainability it would be better not to operate the database on a stand-alone basis. (New) Candidates for collaboration were identified and negotiations started.
In WP5 the project visual identity was developed. Two project’s videos were conceptualised, designed, and implemented. Both videos feature a detective theme, and all roles are played by members of the project. Promotional campaigns were implemented. Aim of the campaigns is to stimulate technology searchers to make use of the database and to stimulate technology providers to add data on their specific technologies to the database.
In the context WP6 four progress meetings were held in person and some 50 biweekly progress meetings were held online. Both served to coordinate the activities between different WPs. This WP also covered the preparation of deliverables documenting work procedures, ethical requirements, assessing and mitigating risks, data management, project performance and impact, etc.
First and foremost, Tech4Biowaste yielded a robust online database, providing well over a hundred technology and company descriptions related to 36 biowaste valorisation (pre-treatment, processing and post-treatment) technologies. Arrangements have been made for the maintenance (and future expansion) of the database. To facilitate technology providers to submit data to this database, (a) a comprehensive coaching and support package and (b) a social media promotion campaign, built around the two project videos, were also conceptualised, designed, and implemented.
