One of the key objectives of the CARINA project is to conduct an integrated sustainability assessment of its bio-based production systems. This includes identifying relevant indicators to cover the associated impacts related to three pillars of sustainability: (i) environent, (ii) society and (iii) economy. 

The goal of this assessment is to determine the sustainability contribution of CARINA concepts and to support the successful implementation of agronomy bio-based systems focused on carinata and camelina. Given the complexity of modern agri-food systems and their wide-reaching effects on society, the environment, and the economy. In this regard, CARINA uses a life cycle approach to evaluate the performance and risks of its novel systems. 

This approach helps to identify potential hotspots and trade-offs in social and environmental impacts. At the same time, economic aspects are evaluated through the analysis of potential benefits and total costs linked to implementation. 

The integrated sustainability assessment combines three primary components: Life Cycle Assessment, Social sustainability assessment and Cost Benefit Analysis, along with system integration aspects. 

This comprehensive methodology offers a broad perspective on the sustainability contributions of the CARINA concepts. It also accounts for the integration potential and limitations within the context of the bioeconomy. Ultimately, the findings from the assessment make it possible to understand the full impact of CARINA systems and to compare them with existing or alternative practices, providing valuable insights for decision-making and supporting the advancement of sustainable bio-based solutions. 

From 3–7 September 2025, CARINA partner PEDAL Consulting presented the project at Agrokomplex, Slovakia’s largest agricultural exhibition, celebrating its 50th edition. With more than 92,000 visitors and over 500 exhibitors from nine countries, the fair provided a unique opportunity to connect with farmers, researchers, companies, and the general public.
In Pavilion M2, dedicated to research and innovation, PEDAL Consulting engaged visitors in discussions about European projects and their role in shaping the future of agriculture. CARINA was presented both at the stand and through a dedicated lecture, “Intelligent crops, stronger future – Discover carinata & camelina with the CARINA project.”
The presentation highlighted the key advantages of camelina and carinata:
• Ability to grow on soils unsuitable for traditional crops
• Potential as sources of oil for biofuels and biomaterials
• Valuable co-products for animal feed
• Positive effects on crop rotation practices
Visitors showed strong interest in the potential of these crops, leading to lively exchanges about their role in strengthening Slovak agriculture.
CARINA’s participation at Agrokomplex confirmed the growing awareness and enthusiasm for innovative, sustainable farming practices, and demonstrated the importance of connecting research with real opportunities for farmers and communities.

Europe imports over 70% of its protein-rich animal feed, much of it from regions facing deforestation and social conflict. The European Commission has made protein autonomy a strategic goal, and sustainable crops like carinata or camelina are part of the answer.

These oilseeds offer a local, low-emission protein source. Their seed cake, a by-product of oil extraction, contains high-quality protein suitable for livestock and aquaculture feed. Crucially, they can be grown on existing farmland, avoiding land-use change or additional environmental burden.

Promoting home-grown protein helps stabilize prices, support farmers, and improve food system sovereignty.

Dive into the policies behind this initiative:

Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023–2027: https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/cap-overview/cap-2023-2027_en

EU Protein Plan Overview: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/1b8aa815-b122-11ec-83e1-01aa75ed71a1

The EU Bioeconomy Strategy envisions a shift from fossil-based feedstocks to renewable biological resources. Bio-based innovation is no longer a niche, it’s a central pillar of Europe’s economic and environmental strategy.

Camelina and carinata are perfectly suited to this vision. Their oils can be transformed into bioplastics, bioherbicides, and bio-lubricants. The residual protein-rich cake can serve as a sustainable animal feed or be further processed into high-value compounds.

By valorizing every part of the crop and fitting seamlessly into current supply chains, CARINA demonstrates what circular agriculture looks like in practice. This approach reduces waste, replaces fossil-derived inputs, and creates rural jobs.

Find out more:

EU Bioeconomy Strategy: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/research-area/environment/bioeconomy_en

Circular Economy Action Plan: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/circular-economy-action-plan_en

Soil is more than dirt, it’s the foundation of life. Yet a significant portion of Europe’s soils are unhealthy, threatening food security and climate resilience. The EU’s Soil Health Law and Biodiversity Strategy both emphasize the urgent need to restore soil functionality and ecosystem richness.

CARINA’s focus on carinata and camelina offers more than new oilseed varieties. These crops actively improve soil biodiversity and structure, particularly when used in rotation with cereals or legumes. Their adaptability and low-input requirements reduce environmental pressure, while enhancing overall agroecosystem health.

In addition, by supporting pollinators and beneficial insects, these crops align perfectly with the EU’s ambition to halt biodiversity loss and restore pollinator habitats.

Explore relevant policies:

EU Soil Health Law (Proposal): https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/soil-and-land/soil-health_en

Biodiversity Strategy 2030: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/biodiversity-strategy-2030_en