Sustainable and Innovative Bioproduction
Combining the possibilities of modern biotechnology with a sustainable bio circular economy and raw material production
We develop the circular bioeconomy and sustainable raw material production of the future, and we renew the business in the bio sector by developing sustainable production methods and circular economy solutions by utilizing biotechnology and smart technologies. Our goal is to find significant new openings and applications that aim at the green transition of business and industry.
Our research groups develop solutions promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and the circular economy. We stay one step ahead by tackling current and future challenges. Our versatile research infrastructure enables the development of innovative solutions. Our extensive network of experts and cooperation with stakeholders ensure that the results of our development work are put into practice cost-effectively.
By side streams and biotechnology, we produce bio-based materials for example for food, cosmetics, health, and textile industry sectors. We develop and use the latest technologies in biogas production and for processing of various waste streams. Our indoor farming research focuses on development and testing of sustainably produced and recyclable growing media materials, solutions minimizing nutrient, energy and water use, and role of microbiological processes and bio-based growth enhancers in plant cultivation.
Digitalisation and smart solutions for data utilisation play a key role in our work. In our solutions, we utilise e.g. the opportunities provided by IoT and artificial intelligence for the monitoring, development and optimisation of sustainable and innovative bioproduction processes. Digitalisation and artificial intelligence will open new opportunities to improve production processes and food quality, and biodegradable and smart packaging will help reduce food waste. We are building a more sustainable future together with companies and society.
Our research groups
The Sustainable bio-based raw material production and biotechnology focus area is divided into four growing research groups, which collaborate actively and mutually supportively.
Sustainable Food Security and Wellbeing from Local Raw Materials, through Research and Development for Diverse Needs
We research and develop a resilient and sustainable food system that utilizes local, organic and natural raw materials, supporting the use of regional resources and the preservation of biodiversity. Our goal is to reduce primary production’s dependence on imported inputs, chemical pesticides and mineral fertilizers. Through our solutions, we create innovations and support profitable and sustainable business operations for companies across the food value chain.
Reliable Local Production and Regional Collaboration
Our work is built on strong regional knowledge and cross-sectoral collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders. Preparedness for exceptional circumstances is a key part of our work, as we develop solutions that enhance the community self-sufficiency and food security. Together, we explore how local food chains can promote both ecological and social sustainability.
Sustainable Food Innovations
We are actively involved in developing innovations in the food sector. We focus on advancing the entire food value chain by utilizing domestic raw materials, responsible production methods, circular material use, and new environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
Technology Supporting the Food System
We apply artificial intelligence, the data economy, robotics and sensor technologies to enhance food production efficiency. We also study the use of exoskeletons to reduce physical workload in production environments. Through digitalization, we aim to build smarter, more predictive, and more flexible food chains.
Our Development Focus and Target Groups
In practice, we create operational models, technological solutions, and new products that improve the sustainability, resilience, and profitability of the food system. Our solutions benefit farmers, the food industry, SMEs, and food service providers, among others.
We work closely with companies, educational institutions, research organizations, NGOs and authorities. Our goal is to jointly build a future-proof and resilient food system where locality, innovation, and responsibility go hand in hand.
Our projects
Accelerating Growth Through Plant-Based Food Innovations (Kasvis-TKI)
The project aims to expand the variety of plant-based products by providing comprehensive information and recipes throughout the entire supply chain, while forming new collaborative networks.
Biogas and Valuable Components from Industrial Waters (Vesitar)
We promote the circular economy by exploring opportunities to utilize valuable components and organic matter derived from industrial by-products and wastewater, for example, in the production of biogas and microalgae.
Business from Fungi in Kanta-Häme
Our goal is to establish a fungi biorefinery within HAMK’s SmartBio education and research centre, serving as a centre of expertise for the development and testing of new composite materials containing fungal mycelium. Fungi materials are utilised in packaging, construction materials, and the textile industry.
Carbon Dashboard Linking Satellite and In-Situ Data for Key Regions (CARDS)
We are establishing a digital observatory in the international CARDS project to enable near real-time monitoring of greenhouse gases in the Arctic and Amazon regions.
Carbon-wise Biogas and Nutrients for Circulation in Kanta-Häme (BioKanta)
The goal of the BioKanta project is to promote the successful implementation of biogas investments in the Kanta-Häme region. The project involves examining biogas solutions based on various scales and feedstocks, providing guidance for those considering facility investments, and generating research data on farm-scale processing solutions to promote nutrient and carbon cycling.
Center of Circular Economy and Horticulture (Hortianna)
We are building a circular and horticultural economy competence center at HAMK’s Lepaa campus, aiming to develop new circular economy-based innovations in collaboration with companies and other stakeholders.
Domestic Bio-raw Materials in Health and Wellness Products (FarKos)
We develop and study methods for processing domestic side streams, as well as for the production and processing of bio-based raw materials such as cultivated plants, fungi, and algae. These raw materials are researched and utilized in the development of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
Durable biopigments and binders (Biopigments)
In Durable biopigments and binders (Biopigments) project, we promote the transition of the dyes and binders industry from fossil raw materials to renewable raw materials.
F3 – Food, Future, Fermentation
We implement practical trials at HAMK’s SmartBio Center, where we research and test alternative raw materials. Our aim is to offer companies in the confectionery and bakery sectors, as well as producers of raw-material components, concrete solutions for processing alternative raw materials and assessing their usability.
Increase Collaboration and e-Learning in the Education of Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (eVerkosto)
The eVerkosto project develops the quality, efficiency and innovation of food industry engineering education in collaboration, ensuring that the actions meet the needs of the labor market in an adaptive approach.
Increasing Organic Expertise in Food Chain Education (LuomuOPE)
LuomuOPE – Increasing Organic Expertise in Food Chain Education is a national development and training project. The purpose of the project is to provide the students in the food chain with basic knowledge about organic food and farming. The development work will be carried out through thematic training and workshops for teachers, as well as…
Contact us
