Rovensa Next is becoming an industrial partner of BIO2, a €6.4 million Horizon project within the European Union (EU) focused on developing next generation bio-based fertilizers and microbial solutions from renewable and circular sources.

“Rovensa Next is contributing with formulations, testing, screening, and field-validation capabilities to help transform underused natural resources into scalable agricultural innovations, with, at least, two fully circular next-generation biofertilizers targeted for delivery by 2029,” said the company’s release.

Launched in May 2025, the 4-year BIO2 project aims to develop products that can reduce dependence on inputs that are increasingly under environmental or regulatory pressure, including conventional sources of nitrogen and phosphorus.

BIO2 is coordinated by the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) in Italy, and involves 20 partners from eight countries, including universities, research institutes, farming organizations and industrial companies.

Dr. Alessio Adamiano, project coordinator at CNR, said: “BIO² contributes directly to Sustainable Crop Production Intensification and the global goal of producing more food with less environmental impact. The shift toward sustainable food systems can’t wait — and BIO² is a concrete step forward.”

“BIO2 is a highly strategic project that relates directly to the European Union’s Farm to Fork objectives. It allows us to explore how circular materials and microbial solutions can be translated into practical applications, supporting more resilient and resource-efficient agriculture and shaping the future of sustainable global agriculture,” said José Nolasco, Head of Global R&D Bionutrition at Rovensa Next.

In addition to the two complete specialty biofertilizers, the company is also supporting the development of at least one biocontrol solution and one animal health product with complete field evaluation, the statement continued.

Rovensa Next has invested in a new pilot fermentation plant in Brazil, read more here.