Use of by-products as system innovation: GeNeSys: Valorization pathway for fishery discards

The reform of the European Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) planned for 2013 focuses on the transition of fisheries into a sustainable industry that only fishes up to the level of maximum sustainable yield. A discard ban is one of the controversial measures. The industry fears landing a large amount of inferior products. This new fraction of the total landings can be seen as a new by-product. The first step is to analyze the composition of these discards. Once there is a clear view on the species composition, quantity and quality, the study will focus on finding valorization pathways such as Highly Added Valuable Compounds (HAVC) and innovative applications. The most promising options will be studied in detail, then we will determine possible stumbling blocks when applying these innovations. To ensure successful commercial integration of those innovations, this project relies heavily on participatory processes with all the stakeholders. The project has a double-loop process. Adjustments and improvements are made after the first loop, then the system is upscaled during the second loop. The goal of this 4-year study is to create one or more innovations that will help the fisheries industry cope with the discard ban. The results this project aims to get are minimal food losses, maximal value of the landings, and a contribution to the CFP’s vision of sustainable management of the fisheries industry.