BIOGRASS Operational Group: Valorization of by-products from crassulacean species present in Andalusia and the Canary Islands for use in biocosmetics, food and agriculture

R1. Diagnostic and Valorization Analysis The GO-BIOCRASS project begins with a comprehensive technical diagnostic of prickly pear and aloe vera crops in Andalusia and the Canary Islands, identifying the byproducts with the greatest potential for utilization. Its aim is to select strategic raw materials and bioactive compounds of interest for transformation into high-value-added resources. This phase allows for the establishment of efficient processing protocols and lays the technical groundwork for sustainable valorization, aligned with the principles of the circular economy and resource optimization.

R2. Design and Implementation of Sustainable Extraction Technologies. GO-BIOCRASS develops and implements innovative extraction and bioconversion technologies to obtain functional compounds from plant byproducts. Through advanced techniques such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, enzymatic processes, and efficient stabilization methods, the project guarantees high extraction yields while minimizing environmental impact. This stage consolidates a production model based on clean and scalable biotechnology, adapted to the needs of the agricultural, biocosmetic, and food sectors.

R3. Efficacy Assessment in Strategic Applications. The project scientifically validates the efficacy of the extracts obtained for application in agronomy, post-harvest, biocosmetics, and nutraceuticals. Through controlled trials and functional studies, optimal doses, modes of action, and specific benefits are determined, such as improved plant growth, increased resistance to water stress, and extended shelf life of food. This result provides technical certainty and scientific support for its future commercial implementation.

R4. Development of Innovative Bioproducts: GO-BIOCRASS completes the technological phase with the formulation of stable and effective bioproducts for various strategic sectors. These include biofertilizers, biostimulants, and biopesticides for sustainable agriculture; edible coatings to improve post-harvest preservation; and cosmetic and nutraceutical formulations based on natural extracts. These prototypes represent an opportunity for productive diversification and the creation of new business lines in rural areas.

R5. Strengthening and Digitizing Production Scenarios. The project implements optimized nutritional management strategies for prickly pear and aloe vera crops, complemented by digital agronomic monitoring tools. This integration of technology and sustainable management improves productivity, biomass quality, and water and nutrient use efficiency. It also strengthens the resilience of agricultural systems to climate change and promotes data-driven agriculture based on sound technical decisions.

R6. Development of demonstrators and new business models. Finally, GO-BIOCRASS develops demonstrators under real growing and market conditions, evaluating the technical, economic, and environmental impact of the proposed solutions. These actions allow for the validation of replicable business models, facilitate technology transfer, and promote adoption by producers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses. The project thus contributes to the modernization of the sector, the promotion of green jobs, and the strategic positioning of Andalusia and the Canary Islands as leaders in bioeconomy applied to resilient crops.

RD1: Effective Internal Communication and Dissemination Plan The expected outcome is the development and implementation of an Internal Communication and Dissemination Plan that ensures coordination among consortium members and the proper dissemination of information generated during the project. This plan will define communication channels, tools, and protocols, including regular meetings, document exchange, the project website, and informational materials. It will also establish a schedule of communication activities, assign responsibilities, and implement monitoring mechanisms to ensure the correct transfer of information among partners and facilitate the subsequent dissemination of results to different stakeholders.

RD2: Dissemination and Technology Transfer through Events and Workshops. The expected outcome is the effective dissemination of the project's progress and results through participation in industry events and the organization of dedicated technical workshops aimed at farmers, businesses, research centers, and other stakeholders in the value chain. These activities will allow for the presentation of developed technologies, byproduct valorization processes, and the resulting bioproducts, fostering knowledge exchange and the adoption of innovations by the production sector. Furthermore, they will contribute to increasing the project's visibility, promoting collaboration among entities, and facilitating technology transfer to end users.

RD3: Project Dissemination through Virtual Activities. The expected outcome is to broaden the dissemination of the project and its results through digital tools and activities, such as the project website, social media, online seminars, digital publications, and audiovisual materials. These actions will allow the project to reach a wider audience, including producers, companies, researchers, and other stakeholders in the sector, facilitating access to the information generated during the project. They will also contribute to improving the project's visibility, sharing the progress achieved, and promoting the continuous transfer of knowledge and technology throughout its implementation.

RD4: Publications The expected outcome is the dissemination of the knowledge and results generated by the project through technical, scientific, and outreach publications. These may include articles in specialized journals, publications in industry media, technical reports, press releases, and outreach materials aimed at professionals in the agri-food, cosmetic, and biotechnology sectors. These publications aim to share the project's progress, increase its visibility, and facilitate the transfer of the generated knowledge to the scientific community, companies, and other stakeholders, contributing to the adoption of the developed innovations.