In November 2021, the “Network for Renewable Raw Materials in the State of Brandenburg” (NNR-BB) was established at the Research Institute for Post-Mining Landscapes (FIB) to increase the cultivation and processing of renewable raw materials (NAWARO) in Brandenburg. Operated under the name Neuwerg, this non-profit platform aims to promote the material and energetic use of agricultural industrial raw materials and to unlock “hidden” innovation potential.
The main objective is to increase production and value creation based on renewable raw materials (NAWARO) and to close regional material cycles. In addition, the aim is to promote crops and products that can be produced in a climate-adapted and climate-neutral way, while also conserving soil and reducing environmental impact. The cultivated NAWARO should ideally replace high-value industrial raw materials, preferably through regional use and largely closed material cycles.
Given the natural conditions in Brandenburg, systems for biomass cultivation on low-yield sites must also be taken into account. These are areas with natural limitations where the usual arable crops cannot generate any, or only minimal, contributions to covering costs and thus do not pose significant competition to food production.
The spectrum ranges from innovative crops and cultivation methods adapted to climate change, to biotechnologically produced chemicals and biomaterials, natural building and construction materials, cosmetics, cascade-like production lines and combined uses, all the way to climate-neutral energy generation and the closed-loop management of residual materials. To achieve this, Neuwerg supports new business fields, value chains, and environmentally friendly products with a strong commitment to sustainability – fully in line with the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals, Agenda 2030) of the United Nations.
1) Neuwerg is an artificial word that refers to the term “ Werg”, which originates from the processing of flax and hemp fibers. The protected brand name is licensed for exclusive use – www.neuwerg.de.
Key areas of focus in our network activities include:
- “Hub” – establishing and operating the online platform https://neuwerg.de to facilitate partner matchmaking, illustrate potential value chains for and through NAWARO, foster exchange among stakeholders, and provide information on events, news, literature, and media resources.
- “Bridge function / connecting link” – facilitating knowledge transfer and information flow through specialist events, promoting exchange and networking among stakeholders, and raising the network’s visibility in Brandenburg and adjacent federal states through public relations.
- “Representation” – identifying and showcasing best-practice examples for NAWARO, as well as promising project ideas, pilot initiatives, and flagship endeavors.
- “Support” – fostering innovative business models by providing consulting services on opportunities and barriers, market assessments, reflection on practical experiences, as well as specialized and methodological input tailored to each individual case.
The focus is on agricultural and forestry businesses, NAWARO-processing companies and product manufacturers, as well as trading and marketing businesses, existing networks, professional associations and societies, and also scientific institutions, specialized authorities, consultants and agencies, local government bodies, and special-purpose associations.
Cooperation partners
Branchmark ug, Hemp Impact, Landeria ug, seenland safran
Project Funding
Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Consumer Protection (MLEUV) of the State of Brandenburg