Cascade valorization of hazelnut industry by-products for industrial use through co-creative processes

Every year tons of hazelnut residues, like shell and skin, are produced because of the necessity of processing to be introduced into the food chain. Hazelnut by-products have an attractive economic valorization; however, despite their good properties and multiple opportunities, they are currently being used for low-value applications. Main objective of this study is the promotion and valorization of agri-food residues, such as hazelnut shell and skin. To this end, the proposed methodology, which also allows the properties and potential applications of the material to be known, has been used to develop novel concepts with high-added value using co-creative eco-ideation techniques. A creative ideation activity, divided in preparation, conceptualization, generation and evaluation, were done with experts from different fields to develop new concepts and solutions. Creative sessions were satisfying; participants exchanged their knowledge and create a good atmosphere where many quality ideas to valorize the residues were generated. Adjustment of the evaluation session allowed to achieve very positive and complete results. Concepts generated in this project draw on the good properties of hazelnut residues and valorize the material in different sectors such as water treatment, bio-composites manufacturing or feed and food production; creating innovative products with many opportunities to be developed and implemented in the market.