The central objective of AEP-Pulse is to develop and demonstrate Aqua-Entomo-Ponics (AEP). With this new production technique, we aim to combine AQUAculture (production of algae, fish, shellfish and crustaceans), ENTOMOculture (production of insects) and hydroPONICS (production of vegetables and ornamental plants in water). By combining these sectors in an Aqua-Entomo-Ponics (AEP) system, we make these productions circular: with minimal input of energy, water, land, nutrients and other raw materials, but with the lowest possible output of waste.

Separate necessary links in the AEP are being further developed in WP3 and WP4 in a cross-border collaboration with SMEs, R&I institutions and educational institutions from TRL4 to TRL8. Specific products and processes that enable AEP and make production even more efficient will be demonstrated on a pilot scale (WP5): plant health products, soil improvement products, compost, biostimulants, innovative technologies, smart data management, etc.

These products and processes developed within WP3 and WP4 are being developed in collaboration with the SMEs in our consortium and at the request of the sectors concerned (see also sounding board group in the appendix sounding board group members.docx and under communication). This means that they can be valorised by SMEs in and outside our region shortly after the end of this project.