In 2022, CLEANTECH LATVIA, together with SIA “BIOMUND”, SIA “KABIŅSALA”, the association “Latvijas Jauno zemnieku klubs” and the Latvian University of Biosciences and Technology, began work on the project “Protein recovery from agricultural residues using insects and the development of a new life cycle”.
One of the key stages of the project is to create a pilot plant in which agricultural residues will be processed using insects. Despite various challenges in the process of creating the pilot plant, significant work has been carried out within the project, from detailed design to the creation and installation of the plant.
First, the procurement for design work has been completed. A detailed project has been developed for the entire construction of the cultivation equipment, which includes 3D visualizations and a list of necessary materials, including drive elements. The project includes individual drawings for the manufacture of parts, including general drawings of laser cutting layouts, welded parts, as well as drawings of turned and milled parts. Secondly, after the design was completed, a procurement was made for the supply of equipment frame materials. This step provided the opportunity to assemble and install the equipment frame in accordance with the developed project. The assembly work proceeded smoothly and was carried out in high quality, providing a stable foundation for further installation work on the equipment.
The next important step was the procurement for the supply of materials for the air exchange and feed supply system. As part of the project, an air exchange system with an air recovery unit for heat energy recovery was fully installed. In addition, the initial air exchange system was also balanced to ensure an appropriate environment for the growing process.
In the context of the procurement, the procurement for the supply of pneumatic components, which is an essential component of the equipment’s functionality, was successfully completed. Pneumatic components will ensure precise and efficient operation of the equipment, which is critical in the breeding process. In addition, a procurement has been made for the purchase and installation of gates. Industrial sectional gates and two high-speed gates have been installed, which separate the larval breeding area from the service area, to ensure an optimal level of hygiene and safety and to effectively organize work in the equipment premises.
The procurement for the supply of motors and reducers has also been successfully completed. In accordance with the project and procurement specifications, 26 electric motors and appropriate set of reducers have been delivered. These elements are essential for the mechanical operation of the equipment, ensuring effective and stable process control.
Overall, the project has been accompanied by various challenges, as evidenced by the extension of the project deadline – it is planned to be completed in June 2025. Currently, work is still underway on the installation of the pilot plant, but it is predicted that the testing process of the equipment will begin in the near future. The project’s pilot plant is a significant step towards providing modern and efficient solutions for processing agricultural residues to recover valuable proteins.
CLEANTECH LATVIA participation in Latvian – Turkmenistan Intergovernmental Commission preparation meeting
In July 2016, in Riga, is planneda third meeting ofLatvia-Turkmenistan Intergovernmental Commission for Economic, Industrial, Scientific and Technical Cooperation.
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CLEANTECH LATVIA meeting with EU Special Representative for Central Asia Peter Burian
International relations manager at CLEANTECH LATVIA Evija Pudane had a meeting with the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia region Peter Burian. The conversation was also attended by the Political Adviser to the EUSR for Central Asia Raimonds Vingris and Eastern Europe and Central Asia DepartmentSecond Secretary Gints Serafinovics.
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Participation of CLEANTECH LATVIA at international ecological forum Baltic Sea Days in Saint-Petersburg
Meeting with Green Light Investment
On 27 January CLEANTECH LATVIA experts held a meeting with fund management company ZGI Capital (ZGI) about possible investment in member companies of CLEANTECH LATVIA.
ZGI got acquainted with the members of CLEANTECH LATVIA and their interests in export markets, as well as with potential of growth and interest in attraction of financial resources to ensure a high rate development. ZGI showed a particular interest to the following companies: LTD General Energy Group, LTD Auravia Latvia, LTD BELSS, JSC Biotehniskais Centrs, LTD EkoStandarts Tehnoloģijas, LTD Eko Osta, LTD KARME FILTRS, LTD VEGA 1 and LTD WATEX.
At the moment some companies are discussing opportunities for cooperation.
ZGI Capital was founded in 2005 and since that has invested in more than 10 projects in different industries. They have more than 15 investors, including local and foreign private investors, institutional investors, such as Development Financial Institution Altum, SEB Group, First Closed Pension Fund and European Regional Development Fund.
Project CB2EAST Partner meeting in Helsinki, Finland
Project Partners Meeting and Steering Group Meeting – in the framework of the CB2EAST project was held on 26 January 2016 in Helsinki, Finland.
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CLEANTECH LATVIA takes part in the 3rd Cluster Matchmaking Conference in Copenhagen
From 17th to 18th September CLEANTECH LATVIJA representatives – Anete Meļņika and Sabīne Ščerbača – participated in the third “Cluster-to-cluster Conference and Matchmaking: Innovation by Combination” which took place in Copenhagen, Denmark. Read more
In the international exhibition in Almaty CLEANTECH LATVIA receives the organizers’ and visitors’ appreciation
On September 16 – 18 the international specialized exhibition “Ecotech 2015” took place in Almaty, Kazakhstan. For the first time Latvian Clean Technology Cluster CLEANTECH LATVIA participated in the exhibition whose stand was popular among the visitors of the exhibition and received the honor of the exhibition organizers “Debut of the Year”. Recycling, renewable energy sources and water treatment technologies raised the most of visitors’ interest. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA continues to introduce Kazakhstan with the best Latvian clean technology solutions and their know-how’s at the exhibition EcoTech 2015
The 11th Central-Asian International Exhibition for Environmental Technologies, Waste Management & Recycling, Industrial Water Treatment and Green Innovations Ecotech 2015 will take place in Almaty, Kazakhstan from September 16-18, 2015. CLEANTECH LATVIA will participate with its own stand to present Latvian best solutions in clean technology industry. Read more
With the participation in “EcoTech 2015” CLEANTECH LATVIA plan to increase its visibility in Kazakhstan
On September 16 – 18 in Almaty, Kazakhstan an international wide range trade exhibition “EcoTech 2015” will take place in which for the first time CLEANTECH LATVIA and its member companies will participate as exhibitors. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA participates in an environment conference in Tashkent
The Working Group on Environmental Governance and Climate Change of the EU-Central Asia Platform for Environment and Water Cooperation has launched its meeting in Tashkent. This meeting will be conducted on July 8 – 10, 2015, gathering over 80 participants that represent environment and water agencies, foreign ministries, regional and international organisations and the civil society. Read more
JSC “BIOTEHNISKAIS CENTRS” participate in the ACHEMA 2015
In June 15 – 19 CLEANTECH LATVIA member JSC “Biotehniskais Centrs” had stand in the exhibition “ACHEMA 2015” presenting the company and its latest developments in the biotechnology sector. JSC “Biotehniskais Centrs” showed the participants for evaluation the company’s latest offers – laboratory and pilot bioreactor versions and applications demonstrations. Read more
Overview of the CLEANTECH LATVIA participation in the exhibition “SU ARNASY 2015”
To promote business cooperation between Latvia and Kazakhstan in the field of water and extend the Latvian environmental technology companies on the Central Asian market, CLEANTECH LATVIA (Latvian Clean Technology Cluster) companies with a common “Cleantech Latvia” stand from May 27 to May 29 took part in the international water exhibition “SU ARNASY 2015” in Astana. During a conference held in the parallel of exhibition, CLEANTECH LATVIA gave a presentation on cluster main activity directions and outlined potential areas of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Latvia. Read more
The annual CLEANTECH LATVIA supported student contest “Saules Kauss 2015” has ended
To develop and increase youth`s knowledge on energy efficient solutions and their application in today’s world on May 16 in the JSC “Sidrabe” premises the annual student competition`s “Saules Kauss 2015” final – solar vehicle competition – was held. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA, FINNISH WATER FORUM and GREENNET FINLAND joint project has been selected for the second step applications process
CleanTech latvia, Finnish Water Forum un GreenNet Finland project concept on joint marketing activities in the Central Asian markets to promote Latvian and Finnish water companies` export opportunities has been approved in the The Central Baltic Programme to continue to the second step applications process. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA will present the offer of Latvian water sector businesses in Astana
To promote business cooperation between Latvia and Kazakhstan in the field of water and extend the Latvian environmental technology companies on the Central Asian market, CLEANTECH LATVIA (Latvian Clean Technology Cluster) companies with a common “Cleantech Latvia” stand from May 27 to May 29 will take part in the international water exhibition “SU ARNASY 2015” in Astana. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA receives additional funding
CLEANTECH LATVIA within the current Clean Technology cluster project has coordinated the amendments with the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) for additional funding in the amount of 95 000 EUR and for extending the period of project implementation until December 31, 2015. We invite all of the members to become actively involved in implementing activities! Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA signs a cooperation memorandum on information exchange in cleantech sector signed during GREEN BRIDGE FORUM 2015
During the third day of the Green Bridge Forum 2015, April 17 a memorandum on cooperation in cleantech sector, including information exchange and implementation of future plans was signed in Jūrmala. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA agree on Waste-to-Energy department development
On April 15 CLEANTECH LATVIA and Riga Technical University`s (RTU) Institute of energy systems and environment (VASSI) signed an agreement on cooperation on creation of a Waste-to-Energy department within CLEANTECH LATVIA. Read more
Less than 3 weeks left until the GREEN BRIDGE FORUM 2015!
Green Bridge Forum 2015 “Building the Bridge to Clean Technologies between European Union and Central Asian countries” will be held from 15th to 18th April, 2015 at the Baltic Beach Hotel in Jūrmala, Latvia.
CLEANTECH LATVIA visits Denmark for experience exchange and cooperation promotion
CleanTech Latvia representatives Dina Eglite and Anete Melnika in the frame of the project “The Nordic-Baltic Mobility and Network Programme for Business and Industry” together with representatives from „BAO” Corp. – Guna Berzina and from „ZAAO” Ltd. – Martins Niklass went on a visit to Denmark from 12th to 13th March. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA still looks for GREEN BRIDGE FORUM 2015 volunteers!
Cleantech Latvia is looking for volunteers who could help at Cleantech Latvia’s supported event “Green Bridge Forum 2015”. Cleantech Latvia is contributing the event by counseling and providing an organizational staff. Read more
A workshop on energy efficiency and environmentally friendly technology use has been held in Tashkent
On February 25 in Tashkent a seminar on “Cooperation opportunities in the area of environmental technologies” was held to discuss the opportunities for cooperation. The event was organized by the Latvian Embassy in Uzbekistan in cooperation with CLEANTECH LATVIA and the Environmental Protection and Regional Development Ministry of Latvia. Read more
Delegation of Latvian entrepreneurs visits Uzbekistan to promote cooperation in the area of clean technologies
On February 23-27 of this year a delegation of Latvian officials and entrepreneurs visits Uzbekistan, Tashkent and Samarkand, in order to further trans-national cooperation in the area of environmental technologies between the European Union and Central Asia. Read more
We are looking for conference volunteers!
Cleantech Latvia is looking for volunteers for who could help Cleantech Latvia’s supported event “Green Bridge Forum 2015”. Cleantech Latvia is contributing the event by counseling and providing an organizational staff. Read more
Strengthening co-operation and experience exchange in Finland
Representatives of Latvian Cleantech cluster also known as CleanTech Latvia Evija Pudane and Sabine Scerbaca with partners from “WATEX”, Ltd., “Karme Filtrs”, Ltd. and “Belss”, Ltd. made a study visit to Finland as a part of “The Nordic-Baltic Mobility and Network Programme for Business and Industry” project. During the visit on January 27 – 29 the delegates visited organizations and companies of cleantech field interested in working in foreign markets and international cooperation on Central Asia projects. Read more
A project solving problems of municipal wastewater sludge processing and use has been completed
CLEANTECH LATVIA in cooperation with Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava” and Latvian water and wastewater works association conducted a survey of municipal sewage sludge quality, its treatment and utilization planning proposals in different Latvian water service suppliers. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA goes to study trip to Norway
On January 12-14 Cleantech Latvia representatives Dina Eglīte and Anete Meļņika together withMHD Research Centre representative Toms Beinerts and ZAAO representative Māris Kampenuss made a study trip to Norway as a part of “The Nordic-Baltic Mobility and Network Programme for Business and Industry” project. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA participates in exhibition “DEPOTECH 2014″ in Leoben, Austria
On November 6th Cleantech Latvia representatives attended waste management, waste processing and recycling as well as landfill technology and site remediation exhibition “DepoTech 2014″ in Leoben, Austria. Read more
CLEANTECH LATVIA participates in a Latvian – Norwegian “green” technologies business matchmaking event
On the October 10 CLEANTECH LATVIA took part in a „Green innovation seminar and matchmaking event” set up by Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) and “Innovation Norway”. During the matchmaking event CLEANTECH LATVIA met with its potential partners from Norway and discussed future collaboartion activities and the possibilities of common exploration of new markets mostly in Central Asia. Read more
Waste, heat, water – Finland’s collaborative path to industrial symbiosis
In early May, the CLEANTECH LATVIA team went on a study tour to Finnish eco-industrial parks to gain inspiration from a country where industrial symbiosis is not just a vision, but a functioning everyday reality. This visit allowed us to see how smart resource management combines with technology, policy and trust-based cooperation between companies, municipalities and the state level.
Strategic policy as a basis for long-term cooperation
The visit program was organized by SITRA – the Finnish Sustainability Innovation Fund, which has been leading the implementation of the national circular economy strategy for more than 10 years and coordinates cooperation between industrial parks across the country. With their support, a clear framework of action, regional clusters and financing instruments have been created that allow companies to move from idea to solution. This systemic approach is something that we in Latvia should adopt and adapt.
Industrial symbiosis is possible where there is a clear vision, real tools and a willingness to cooperate
Mikkeli – a place where water becomes the basis of circulation
In the EcoSairila industrial park in Mikkeli, we saw how water treatment, biogas production and waste management are linked into a single resource circulation system. Here, the wastewater treatment plant built underground is both a technological base and a science and innovation platform, the side flows of which are converted into biomethane, fertilizer and energy. All this is designed with a long-term view – the infrastructure is planned for the next 50 years. The park is located only 1 km from the city center, and the energy and resources it generates are used for local needs, providing not only sustainability solutions, but also economic benefits for the city’s residents.
Salo – heat as a sustainable infrastructure
The Lounapuisto industrial park in Salo and the Lounavoima waste incineration plant provide ~90% of the city’s district heating. Moreover, geothermal heat storage systems, CO₂ capture and conversion into fuel, as well as nutrient recovery from sewage sludge are being developed. Heat here is not just for heating buildings – it is part of a local energy and material symbiosis.
The trip was implemented within the framework of the LIFE integrated project “Waste as a resource in Latvia – promoting regional sustainability and circularity” (LIFE20 IPE/LV/000014).
Leap4Growth – news for exporters
News for exporters!
In June of this year, we have launched a new international project.
Leap4Growth aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises from Latvia, Estonia, Sweden and Finland to successfully expand into Southeast Asian markets.
The project will pay special attention to the Greater Bay Area (GBA), using Hong Kong and Vietnam as strategic gateways for market development. The region offers high growth potential and growing demand for innovation – in green technology (Greentech), health technology (Healthtech), digital transformation, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence and other technology-intensive sectors.
Within the framework of the Leap4Growth project, at least 100 companies will receive strategic support and at least 20 companies will reach their first deals in the Greater Bay Area.
Follow https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridging4growth/ to stay informed about project news and how to apply.
Project “Leap4Growth” is supported as part of the an Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021-2027 and is co-funded by the European Union.
Achievements in the 5th and 6th quarters of the project “Cleantech Latvia”
We invite you to take a look at the indicators achieved in the 5th and 6th quarters of the CLEANTECH LATVIA Cluster Growth 2024-2026 project.
This period can be described as quite active:
– Export visits to 9 countries;
– 15 networking events;
– 4 working group meetings.
One of the most important activities in these quarters was the export mission to Moldova, which was attended by 6 CLEANTECH LATVIA members – Aqua-Brambis, RSGA, Akorda, Koneko, Amplicam and BWEG. The visit provided a platform for making new contacts, market research and planning long-term cooperation with representatives of the Moldovan public and private sectors. The next visit is planned for the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.
We are very pleased with the interest of the members and their participation in the planned activities of the project.
We will continue to inform you about the achievements of the next quarters until the end of the project.
The recording is co-financed by the Recovery Fund within the framework of project No. 5.1.1.2.i.0/3/24/A/CFLA/011 “CLEANTECH LATVIA cluster growth 2024-2026”.
Industrial Symbiosis Innovation Accelerator
Dairy by-products: a problem or an innovation potential?
We invite you to apply for the second round of the SINERGIA industrial symbiosis accelerator, which focuses on two challenges from Valmieras piena and Smiltene piena – one of the largest dairy processing companies in Latvia.
This is a unique opportunity for teams and innovators who want to create technological, practical and sustainable solutions for real production residues.1. Challenge: Processing of fermented milk juices
Every year, Valmieras piena and Smiltene piena together produce more than 20,000 tons of fermented milk juices – a liquid by-product that occurs in the production of fermented dairy products (cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, etc.).
2. Challenge: Flotation sludge management
The treatment of dairy wastewater results in flotation sludge – a mass of organic origin with a high moisture content and complex chemical composition.
More information: https://ej.uz/akcelerācijasprogramma
Apply: https://ej.uz/akcelerācijapieteikties
Biotechnology company launch
Why are there so few biotechnology startups in Latvia?
Because it is a knowledge-intensive industry, and the creation and development of new projects to a significant level requires significant research and engineering capacity. And enormous patience, willpower, and indefatigable creativity.
Environmental engineer Kārlis from Biomund began working on the topic of insects 7 years ago, when he realized that our attitude towards organic waste was wrong and there had to be ways to use it more meaningfully.
Our cooperation with Kārlis began in 2019, when we embarked on a joint path to attracting external funding for the development of an innovation project, and since 2022, with the support of the Rural Support Service, we have been implementing the most significant project in the company’s history – the creation of a pilot plant for growing insects in automated conditions, because who would want to reload 1,000 boxes from one pile to another every day, and so on day after day.
A lot has already been done and a lot of work has been done, and it is time to properly celebrate it and say thank you to everyone who has been involved.
Yesterday we celebrated an important milestone in the project “Recovery of proteins from agricultural residues using insects and the creation of a new cycle of circulation”.
Together with the Ministry of Agriculture of Latvia, the Ministry of Climate and Energy, the Rural Support Service, the State Scientific Institute BIOR, LBTU – Latvian University of Biosciences and Technologies, the Cooperation Council of Agricultural Organizations, as well as our many cooperation partners, we inspected the already completed production line and observed the first insects in their growth process.
At present, it is important to prove that such processing of plant waste into resources can also be economically and technologically justified, and can become part of the circular economy in Latvia.
The supply of grown insects to chickens in their regular meal will also be important. We will know very soon what the chickens will say about it, because 100 lucky beauties will receive a dose of insects with their daily meal. The other 100, which are used to compare the results, will certainly envy the first ones, because what could be better for a chicken than a worm it found itself. Experts say that worms have a good effect on the well-being of chickens, they become calmer, do not peck each other, lay more valuable eggs and generally feel better physically. Will it be so? We will report. Already this year!
This project was supported by the Latvian Rural Development Programme 16.2. sub-programme “Support for the implementation of the EIP Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability Working Group project” and a great partnership – CLEANTECH LATVIA as the lead partner, knowledge-intensive start-up Biomund, knowledge and research organisation LBTU – Latvian University of Biosciences and Technology, company SIA Kabiņsala, and Latvian Young Farmers Club
The publication was prepared with the support of the project LAD No. 22.2-00A01120-000017.
Photo Vilnis Pļaviņš
How can a local government become a driving force for industrial symbiosis?
How can a municipality become a driving force for industrial symbiosis?
A study tour to Barcelona, a visit to GRID Granollers – a municipally-led initiative that puts industrial symbiosis into practice – helped us understand this question.
GRID Granollers emphasizes that municipalities have an advantage in implementing such initiatives: they know their companies, infrastructure, people’s needs and local problems. This knowledge allows them to purposefully promote cooperation between companies, facilitate the exchange of resources and bring the circular economy to life not only formally, but also in real life.
Their Mercat de Recursos (Resource Market) is a digital platform where companies can exchange surplus materials, thus reducing waste and at the same time reducing costs. In parallel, they operate the Coopera program, which also helps companies cooperate in waste management, energy efficiency and logistics.
GRID Granollers’ approach is based on building trust, sustainability and cost reduction – these are the key elements that help companies take a step closer to industrial symbiosis.
Their example proves to us that if a municipality is active, purposeful and in close contact with local businesses, it can be a real driver of change on the path to a circular economy.
Or could your municipality also take a step in this direction?
Consider adapting the GRID Granollers experience in your region – let’s share inspiration and practical examples!
– The experience exchange trip took place within the framework of the projects “Development of prerequisites for the implementation of industrial symbiosis and strengthening the competence of the LSG” (No. 1-08/95/2024) and “Waste as resources in Latvia – Promoting regional sustainability and circularity” (LIFE20 IPE/LV/000014).
Achievements in the 3rd and 4th quarters of the project “Cleantech Latvia”
We invite you to take a look at the indicators achieved in the 3rd and 4th quarters of the project CLEANTECH LATVIA Cluster Growth 2024-2026.
This period can be described as quite active:
– 2 Export visits to foreign partners to promote the development of new products and cooperation;
– 6 Networking events;
– Publishing and sending out newsletters about the current project in the context of the project.
We are very pleased with the interest and participation of our members in the planned activities of the project.
We will continue to inform you about the achievements of the next quarters until the end of the project.
The entry is co-financed by the Recovery Fund within the framework of project No. 5.1.1.2.i.0/3/24/A/CFLA/011 “CLEANTECH LATVIA Cluster Growth 2024-2026”.
Design guidelines for sustainable rainwater solutions in the section “Plants – application and assortment”
The project developed Design Guidelines for Sustainable Stormwater Solutions (SWSS), which combine green infrastructure elements with engineering methods to create modern and ecological urban systems. The guidelines offer a comprehensive approach to stormwater management, focusing on mimicking natural processes, reducing flood risk and improving water quality.
Key features of the guidelines
SWSS systems are adaptable to urban density and climate change challenges. The guidelines offer solutions that help stormwater naturally absorb, filter and gradually return to natural cycles. The most important solutions include:
· Rain gardens, which capture and filter water from impervious surfaces.
· Green roofs, which provide water accumulation and improve the urban microclimate.
· Wetlands and infiltration basins, which improve water quality and ensure biodiversity.
· Green corridors that combine aesthetics with efficient water management and heat island mitigation.
The role of plants in sustainable solutions
The project emphasizes the multifunctionality of plants: water retention, soil stabilization, pollutant filtration and provision of ecological services. Plants are selected taking into account local climatic conditions and their ability to adapt to fluctuations in humidity levels.
Global trends and local relevance
Considering the increase in urban urbanization and the more intense impact of climate change, the guidelines offer decentralized approaches based on the integration of natural processes. They are in line with international green infrastructure trends and help create a more resilient, ecologically friendly and economically advantageous urban environment.
The guidelines are a significant step towards the development of sustainable infrastructure in Latvia, promoting the integration of environmentally friendly solutions in the urban environment, reducing flood risk and improving the quality of life of society.
New German standard for rainwater infiltration solutions
In October this year, the German Water, Wastewater and Waste Management Association (DWA) approved the regulations (worksheet) DWA-A 138-1 “Rainwater infiltration systems – Part 1: Planning, construction and operation”, which is a document of a similar level to the Latvian national standard.
Cities with significant population density face major challenges in rainwater management, especially because climate change is increasing the frequency, duration and intensity of extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall and heat waves. This overloads the wastewater system and contributes to the increase in summer heat. According to the German Water Resources Act (WHG), rainwater must be managed decentrally or discharged directly into a water body using a sewage system in which rainwater is not mixed with domestic wastewater. The DWA-A 100 “Guidelines for integrated urban stormwater management” regulations set the overall goal of having as little impact on the natural water balance as possible as a result of development. Looking to the future and taking climate change into account, decentralized stormwater management is becoming a priority: stormwater is collected and used on site (if possible and permissible), evaporated, infiltrated into the soil or discharged into local surface waters, taking into account soil and water protection requirements.
History of the regulations
DWA (Deutsche Vereinigung für Wasserwirtschaft, Abwasser und Abfall) is the German association for water management, wastewater and waste management, whose role is to develop safe and sustainable water and waste management. As a politically and economically independent organization, it works professionally in the areas of water management, wastewater, waste and soil protection.
At European level, DWA is the association with the largest number of members in this field and occupies a special place thanks to its professional competence in developing regulations, educating and informing both experts and the public. The association has approximately 14,000 members, who are managers and experts from municipalities, universities, design offices, institutions and companies.
The regulations for rainwater infiltration systems have developed over a long period of time. In January 1990, the ATV-A 138 worksheet “Construction and design of systems for decentralized infiltration of relatively unpolluted rainwater” was first developed. In 2005, the regulations were revised to create the DWA-A 138 worksheet “Planning, construction and operation of infiltration systems”. The updated regulations were published for public consultation in 2019 and have now been supplemented and approved.
The DWA-A-138 worksheet provides an overview of currently known rainwater infiltration solutions that have proven themselves in practice. Information is included on the infiltration of rainwater into groundwater and the necessary hydrogeological conditions for its implementation, as well as on the necessary measures for the protection of soil and groundwater. The first part summarizes the currently known infiltration methods and systems that have proven themselves in practice, while the second part (DWA-A-138-2), which is under development, provides specific examples and practical advice.
From design to installation
In 2022, CLEANTECH LATVIA, together with SIA “BIOMUND”, SIA “KABIŅSALA”, the association “Latvijas Jauno zemnieku klubs” and the Latvian University of Biosciences and Technology, began work on the project “Protein recovery from agricultural residues using insects and the development of a new life cycle”.
One of the key stages of the project is to create a pilot plant in which agricultural residues will be processed using insects. Despite various challenges in the process of creating the pilot plant, significant work has been carried out within the project, from detailed design to the creation and installation of the plant.
First, the procurement for design work has been completed. A detailed project has been developed for the entire construction of the cultivation equipment, which includes 3D visualizations and a list of necessary materials, including drive elements. The project includes individual drawings for the manufacture of parts, including general drawings of laser cutting layouts, welded parts, as well as drawings of turned and milled parts. Secondly, after the design was completed, a procurement was made for the supply of equipment frame materials. This step provided the opportunity to assemble and install the equipment frame in accordance with the developed project. The assembly work proceeded smoothly and was carried out in high quality, providing a stable foundation for further installation work on the equipment.
The next important step was the procurement for the supply of materials for the air exchange and feed supply system. As part of the project, an air exchange system with an air recovery unit for heat energy recovery was fully installed. In addition, the initial air exchange system was also balanced to ensure an appropriate environment for the growing process.
In the context of the procurement, the procurement for the supply of pneumatic components, which is an essential component of the equipment’s functionality, was successfully completed. Pneumatic components will ensure precise and efficient operation of the equipment, which is critical in the breeding process. In addition, a procurement has been made for the purchase and installation of gates. Industrial sectional gates and two high-speed gates have been installed, which separate the larval breeding area from the service area, to ensure an optimal level of hygiene and safety and to effectively organize work in the equipment premises.
The procurement for the supply of motors and reducers has also been successfully completed. In accordance with the project and procurement specifications, 26 electric motors and appropriate set of reducers have been delivered. These elements are essential for the mechanical operation of the equipment, ensuring effective and stable process control.
Overall, the project has been accompanied by various challenges, as evidenced by the extension of the project deadline – it is planned to be completed in June 2025. Currently, work is still underway on the installation of the pilot plant, but it is predicted that the testing process of the equipment will begin in the near future. The project’s pilot plant is a significant step towards providing modern and efficient solutions for processing agricultural residues to recover valuable proteins.