The integrated and interdisciplinary regional project on Next Generation Biofuels, promoted by the CEI, was thoroughly discussed upon during an expert meeting on 24 November in Belgrade (after its endorsement by the Minister of Science and Technology who met for the very first time ever in Trieste on 19 October, 2011).
The event, organised by the Serbian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy with CEI support witnessed the participation of around 70 experts from 15 CEI Member States. It offered the opportunity to highlight the potentials of Next Generation Biofuels and related opportunities and existing barriers.
After his introductory remarks Mr. Girogio Rosso Cicogna, CEI Alternate Secretary General, emphasised the fact that Next Generation GìBiofules represent a priority option for any long-term strategy in the field of eco-friendly renewable energy. He underlined the expected extraordinary benefits in terms of job creation, rural development, reduction of CO2 emmissions and self sufficiancy.
The CEI aims at developing an integrated regional project which would promote capacity building through competitive fellowships and collaborative research by providing grants to the labs available to support joint R&D projects. Moreover, cooperation between and among research European labs and industrial partners would be enhanced in view of developing centres for innovation and technology transfer in the CEI region. Approximately 100 research groups have already confirmed their readiness to take part in this strategic project. Over 1000 scientists and researchers are expected to take part in the activity.
The experts who gathered in Belgrade analysed the ways to overcome the main barriers to the development of Europe’s bio-products potential. In this context, a study prepared by Bloomberg was presented providing data on job creation, innovation and economic growth, natural resources, environment, energy security, technologiesin CEI countries.
For more information: dovier@cei-es.org