From Grape Waste to Wellness: A University-Led Innovation in Sustainable Health Entrepreneurship and Circular Bioeconomy

Achievement: Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) has led a transformative initiative under the EU-funded BESTMEDGRAPE project, turning grape pomace, a traditional agricultural waste, into antioxidant-rich health supplements through green chemistry and circular bioeconomy principles. Through the collaboration of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, and the Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), the project established “H&H”, a university-incubated startup that embodies sustainable innovation. The initiative has already diverted 1.2 tonnes of grape waste from landfills, reduced energy use by 35%, and saved 40% in water consumption, while creating new jobs and training over 20 students. It demonstrates how academic institutions can transform environmental challenges into market opportunities, aligning with the following Sustainable Development Goals:

- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Development of science-based antioxidant products.

- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Creation of green jobs and entrepreneurial ventures.

- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Circular use of agricultural waste.

- SDG 13: Climate Action – Reduction of carbon emissions through waste valorization.

AAU is now leading a Mediterranean replication task force with partner universities in Lebanon, Italy, and Tunisia to scale the model regionally, positioning the university as a regional pioneer in sustainable health entrepreneurship and climate-positive innovation.

Mission Statement: Transforming agricultural waste into sustainable health solutions through circular bioeconomy, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary research that promote environmental and social well-being.