The INNOAQUA project will take part in the “Protein Transition: GIANT LEAPS Ahead and VALPRO Paths to Follow” Final Conference, taking place on 25 June 2026 at Atelier des Tanneurs in Brussels.
This joint event, organised by the Horizon Europe projects GIANT LEAPS and VALPRO Path, will bring together around 200 participants, including policymakers, researchers, industry representatives, and other actors involved in Europe’s evolving protein landscape. The programme focuses on sharing results, practical tools, and perspectives that can support the transition towards more sustainable protein systems.
A focus on sustainability in the dietary shift
As part of the programme, Dr Dorinde Kleinegris, INNOAQUA project coordinator, principal investigator in microalgae at NORCE Research, will moderate:
“Assessing the Sustainability of Alternative Proteins in the Dietary Shift”
This discussion will look at how sustainability is assessed as new protein sources are developed and introduced, with a focus on how their environmental, social, and economic performance can be evaluated and compared using consistent approaches.
It will also explore how different assessment methods are applied in practice, and how the results can support decisions across research, industry, and policy.
The programme includes contributions from:
- Dr Birgir Örn Smárason (Matís)
What does it take to know if an Alternative Protein is Sustainable? Lessons from Four Years of Integrated Assessment - Dr Tryfon Kekes (University of Athens)
Sustainability Assessments of Plant Protein Business Opportunities - Dr Clare Mills (University of Surrey)
The Link between Health and Safety, and Sustainability of the Dietary Shift
The discussion will conclude with a Q&A, enabling exchange between speakers and participants from different backgrounds.
Connecting to INNOAQUA’s work
The GIANT LEAPS and VALPRO Path Final Conference will bring together insights developed over several years of research and collaboration, covering barriers to adoption, technological solutions, sustainability considerations, and future pathways for Europe’s protein transition.
Through its work on algae-based ingredients and integrated aquaculture systems, INNOAQUA brings its perspective to this exchange, contributing to discussions on how alternative protein solutions can be developed in a way that balances environmental performance with safety, quality, and nutritional value.
If you would like to learn more about INNOAQUA’s work, follow our updates or connect with us during the conference.
