SIVARA Operational Group: Operational group for the comprehensive valorization of the Atlantic resin sector: uniqueness, innovation and sustainability

Formulation and selection of organic eco-stimulants adapted to the mechanized closed-container method to obtain resin free of chemical traces and increase the interval between tapping. The development of eco-stimulants will translate into greater profitability for the primary sector by increasing the interval between tapping. Increasing the cycle by one day (from 21 days) would allow working up to 500 more trees per season, increasing income by 7% (an additional €22,250 on top of €33,750 annually). Trace-free resin opens up high-value markets such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, where turpentine could replace oils costing up to €125/L compared to the current €2.5/L. The circular tapping method facilitates access for new resin tappers and makes the activity compatible with other uses. Profitable resin tapping promotes active forest management (intrinsically linked), fire prevention, pine forest conservation, CO₂ absorption, resilience to pests and extreme weather, and fosters a circular bioeconomy and decarbonization.

Characterization of key parameters of industrial interest for the target markets of resin (rosin and turpentine) obtained from the circular pick method and its stability over time under diverse storage conditions. Controlling the stability of the resin and its derivatives through the implementation of storage and/or preservation methodologies, as well as NIR monitoring, will optimize analysis and manufacturing processes, maximizing the yields of the transformations carried out and minimizing the consumption of both energy and additional reagents, adjuvants, or correctors, as well as waste generation, resulting in processes with a lower environmental impact. This will open the door to the study of new uses for these products in various industrial sectors. For example, the use of a natural derivative such as rosin in cosmetic formulations would reduce dependence on synthetic, petroleum-derived ingredients, contributing to a decrease in the carbon footprint of the cosmetics industry and promoting the use of renewable resources.

Establishment of stability control for key parameters in resin, rosin, and turpentine for the processing industry using non-destructive testing (NIR) techniques. Implementing NIRS technology for stability control, quality assurance, and chemical characterization and differentiation in the processing industry will significantly streamline quality control of resin, rosin, and turpentine. Reducing analysis times from the 24 hours required by the traditional steam distillation method to virtually instantaneous analysis with NIRS will optimize industrial processes. This increased efficiency will allow processing companies to analyze larger volumes of raw materials in less time, make faster decisions regarding batch quality, and optimize production, resulting in a substantial improvement in industrial efficiency and productivity.

Characterization of the turpentine chemotype from resin in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, identifying its unique components. This characterization will allow for the identification of its chemical singularity, opening doors to high-value-added niche markets that strengthen the primary sector's position in the agri-food value chain by offering innovative solutions to other industries. This will position Atlantic resin in a market with higher profit margins, directly benefiting producers who can offer this differentiated raw material. The identification of a unique chemotype linked to the Pinus pinaster of the northwest will reinforce the region's identity and natural heritage, generating a sense of pride and belonging, and can be used as a territorial marketing tool.

Developing new products for applications in specific markets, demonstrating their efficacy in vitro. This will diversify the NO resin offering, allowing access to markets with significant growth potential and attracting consumers interested in multifunctional and naturally derived products (cosmetics). Furthermore, the development of bioactive products, such as antifungals, opens avenues for diversification into the agricultural and forestry sectors, aligning with the European Green Deal's objectives of reducing the use of synthetic chemicals in agriculture and forestry. This would also reduce dependence on synthetic, petroleum-derived ingredients, lowering the carbon footprint of various industrial sectors and promoting the use of renewable resources. Characterization through chemotyping, by focusing its use on specific, high-value applications, could reduce the need for intensive refining processes and the use of chemicals, minimizing waste generation and potential environmental impact.

A comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) of the quality, carbon footprint, and life cycle of domestically produced resin versus imported resins of non-renewable origin will be conducted, highlighting the advantages of Atlantic resin. The comparative LCA will analyze all stages of the resin's life cycle, identifying weaknesses and opportunities for improvement to reduce the environmental footprint of Atlantic resin production compared to its main economic competitors, imported resins. The LCA will provide concrete data on the environmental benefits of Atlantic resin (lower carbon footprint, reduced consumption of non-renewable resources) and will highlight the potential for replacing harsh chemicals and the search for natural and local ingredients to reduce transportation emissions. The carbon footprint comparison between Atlantic resin and imported and/or synthetic resins will make the environmental impact of both products visible, benefiting the domestic product, similar to what has occurred in other sectors such as construction, where wood (of renewable origin) offers significant advantages over steel and concrete.

Establishment of a strategic collaboration and promotion platform for the Northwest resin sector, fostering innovation, value creation, and improved competitiveness. It will act as an engine for generating added value by facilitating the adoption of efficient and sustainable practices by producers. Coordination and access to market information through this platform will reduce price volatility and offer economic stability. At the regional level, it will play a fundamental role in facilitating direct connections between Northwest producers and the processing industry (nationally and internationally), allowing resin tappers access to more direct and transparent marketing channels, strengthening their position in the value chain by gaining greater recognition and better remuneration for their differentiated raw material. It will revitalize the rural economy, offering a complementary economic opportunity to traditional forestry, which can encourage the current population to remain in rural areas and attract young people, generating employment and attracting investment.

Development of a communication plan. This outcome will involve planning the milestones for the different stages of the outreach campaign, agreed upon with the partners, and will include: a) market analysis, b) target audience and ideal audience, c) timeline, d) tools, e) corporate manual, f) achievement milestones, and g) internal goals and objectives. This outcome also includes developing a database with key information on potential clients, industry figures, and media contacts, in order to create an industry influence map for future events. The selected communication channels and formats (text, email, WhatsApp, video calls, and online and offline meetings) are tailored to the need for agile and efficient internal communication among project partners, facilitating detailed discussion, joint decision-making, and progress monitoring in the outreach campaign planning. This is crucial for establishing the foundation of a coherent and effective communication strategy for the rest of the project.

Raising awareness among the general public about pine as a native natural product. This will be achieved through collaboration with partners, developing informational materials for social media to increase the visibility of the resin, forestry, and innovative industries to the general public. Generating knowledge and interest in the project by positioning ourselves as expert representatives through the industry's representative body. This outcome incorporates historical, environmental, scientific, and gender perspectives, aiming to create a narrative of general interest surrounding the resin and forestry industries.

Transfer of results to key sectors, specialized audiences, professionals, and public administrators. Through the work of all partners, materials and resources for effective scientific communication will be developed, enabling the transfer of knowledge to the primary sectors, industry, resin producers, and academia. This will foster respect and connectivity within the sector through participation in in-person events, solidifying the regulatory body as a benchmark for innovation in the resin and forestry industries.

Data and metrics analysis to determine the effectiveness of the outreach efforts. The aim is to obtain tangible communication data, such as traffic, interaction, and channel followers, to provide context for the outreach campaign, allow for adjustments throughout the process, and ultimately bring it to a close.