The UNAMAZ and BioTec-Amazônia stand at COP 30 received, on the afternoon of this Monday (17), the presentation of innovative projects that highlight the potential of the bioeconomy for the sustainable development of the Amazon region. Among the highlights were the Maniva Tapajós Project and the research of the Supercritical Technology Laboratory (LABTECS), initiatives that expand production, qualify processes and diversify the market for Amazonian products.
The Tapajós Cassava Project, developed by researchers from the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA) in partnership with institutions such as Embrapa, emerged to solve a recurring challenge faced by rural producers: the difficulty of planting cassava, which frequently rotted at the root. Through genetic improvement of the seeds, with phytosanitary guarantees, farmers in southwestern Pará began to cultivate larger areas, increasing productivity and strengthening the marketing chain. Currently, the project operates in six municipalities, offering training and technical support to local farmers.
During the presentation, the Pro Tempore President of UNAMAZ, Professor José Seixas Lourenço, highlighted the high potential of the initiatives for attracting investments. He also informed that representatives of funding agencies will visit the stand next Wednesday (19) to learn about, discuss and, if necessary, finance projects on sustainability, bioeconomy, climate transition, decarbonization and credit for small businesses.
Another highlight was the work of LABTECS, based at the Federal University of Pará (UFPA), which seeks to solve persistent challenges in the açaí production chain. Currently, while the pulp is valued, a large amount of waste is discarded or burned. The laboratory has identified compounds of high biotechnological value in these byproducts, such as anthocyanin, used in the formulation of anti-inflammatory drugs, and is developing technologies for its use in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields.
Supercritical technology—which works by modifying temperature and pressure to bring compounds to a supercritical state—allows for the efficient and highly selective extraction of the purest components from regional fruits such as muruci, cupuaçu, and others. This technique expands the possibilities for innovation and adds value to the Amazonian bioeconomy.
Closing the program, UNAMAZ promoted a debate on scientific cooperation and sustainability, with the participation of the vice-rector of the Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Loiane Prado; the representative of the Center for Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution (GLIP/USP), Gerson Damiani; and the manager of the Amazônia+ Institute, Reginaldo Ramos. The participants emphasized the importance of collaboration between universities and strategic institutions for building shared solutions for the region.
The Vice-Rector of UFPA, Loiane Prado, highlighted the coordinating role of UNAMAZ:
"It is a strategic and relevant role in advancing national and international cooperation, consequently strengthening our universities in the Amazon, within the historical context we are experiencing with COP30."
Gerson Damiani reinforced the University of São Paulo's (USP) commitment to the partnership: “USP feels absolutely honored to be able to cooperate with UFPA in present and future actions (...). Meeting here, in this UNAMAZ forum, allows us to expand our horizons towards a future that we can build together and stronger.”