Co-creation methodology for biotechnology trust-building measures for improved innovation uptake in the bio-based innovation system

Project Information

B-TRUST

Grant agreement ID: 101134847

DOI

10.3030/101134847

Project closed

EC signature date 21 November 2023

Start date 1 December 2023

End date 31 May 2026

Funded under

• Food, Bioeconomy Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 1 499 225,00

Coordinated by

FLANDERS' FOOD
Belgium

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - B-TRUST (Co-creation methodology for biotechnology trust-building measures for improved innovation uptake in the bio-based innovation system)

Reporting period: 2023-12-01 to 2025-05-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Biotechnology holds immense promise for advancing sustainability across sectors such as healthcare, materials, chemicals, and food production. Yet, its adoption remains hindered by public scepticism, industry hesitation, and regulatory inertia. The B-trust project addresses this challenge by developing a transparent and inclusive governance model that fosters trust in biotechnology, particularly within the bio-based and agri-food sectors. Grounded in the Theory of Change, the project engages civil society and stakeholders through co-creation processes that serve as trust-building catalysts. These efforts culminate in a set of principles and measures designed to enhance transparency, safety, and stakeholder engagement. Six biotech use cases, selected to reflect diverse concerns and benefits, serve as the foundation for mapping real and perceived risks. This comprehensive approach enables a nuanced understanding of biotechnology’s societal impact and lays the groundwork for broader acceptance. A dedicated forum ensures ongoing training and stakeholder involvement, supporting the model’s replication and long-term sustainability in research, policy, and funding contexts.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

B-trust has successfully implemented a pioneering co-creation programme embedded in a 5H-informed governance framework. This initiative has demonstrated how trust in biotechnology can be cultivated through inclusive, evidence-based engagement. Six Biotech Co-Creation Cases were used to test and refine the methodology, each undergoing iterative risk benefit assessments that integrated scientific, technical, and sustainability dimensions. Through interactions with 221 stakeholders including consumers and farmers, the project identified key trust barriers and refined its co-creation approach accordingly. These insights informed the development of targeted trust-building measures and guiding principles, co-designed with stakeholders capable of influencing implementation. The project also delivered six digital masterclasses that deepened understanding of consumer perceptions and strategies for fostering trust in sustainable biotech innovations. To ensure accountability and impact, B-trust developed a Theory of Change and a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Framework. These tools have guided the project’s progress and learning cycles. The B-trust Forum was launched as a convening platform for 5H actors, and the project has established meaningful collaborations with other initiatives focused on biotechnology and public acceptance.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The MEL Framework has confirmed that the co-creation programme significantly improved stakeholder understanding of biotechnology and the specific Biotech Co-Creation Cases. Participants reported a more informed and positive perception of biotechnology, particularly regarding evidence-based risks and benefits. The digital masterclasses further enhanced awareness among 5H stakeholders of the importance of consumer acceptance and the value of the B-trust methodology. The programme’s success has led to its adoption by other Horizon Europe projects aiming to accelerate biotech development in the agri-food and bio-based sectors. This demonstrates the model’s scalability and relevance beyond the scope of B-trust.

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