UPV turns crab waste into green economy wins

The University of the Philippines Visayas Seafood PRIME Laboratory joined European Union delegates, government leaders, researchers, and coastal communities in a series of engagements showing how science-based innovation can support circular economy transformation, from high-level investment discussions in Iloilo City to field demonstrations in the island community of Igbon in Concepcion, Iloilo.

The engagements formed part of the European Union-Philippines Green Economy Partnership, a flagship program under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative that promotes sustainable investments and partnerships supporting the transition to a green economy.

At the Iloilo Provincial Hall, representatives of the EU Delegation to the Philippines, the Iloilo provincial government, and project partners explored opportunities to scale green investments, sustainability initiatives, and innovation-driven development across the province.

During the meeting, EU representatives highlighted the importance of strong partnerships and collaborative approaches in accelerating green economy initiatives and creating long-term pathways for sustainable growth.

Representing the UPV Seafood PRIME Laboratory were Encarnacion Emilia Yap and Gardel Xyza Silvederio, who participated as representatives of Components 2 and 3 of the Crabsolutely Zero, or CrabZero, Project.

CrabZero is a demonstration project that transforms blue swimming crab processing waste into high-value products while promoting circular economy practices in coastal communities.

The discussions continued in Barangay Igbon, where EU delegates and stakeholders saw how scientific innovation is being translated into community impact.

Once challenged by the accumulation of discarded crab shells, the island community is emerging as a model for waste valorization and sustainable livelihood development.

Silvederio showcased marine bioproducts developed from blue swimming crab byproducts, including chitosan, chitosan-based biocomposite films, bioactive peptides, astaxanthin, and other value-added products derived through waste valorization processes.

The innovations show how seafood processing byproducts, traditionally regarded as waste, can be reintegrated into productive value chains to create economic opportunities while reducing environmental burdens.

Delegates also observed the operation of the Crab Shell Washer Technology developed through the Department of Science and Technology’s Industrial Technology Development Institute, or DOST-ITDI, and the Solar Tunnel Dryer used by members of the BIGKAS Association.

Together, the technologies support the efficient processing of crab shell waste into valuable resources while addressing environmental and public health concerns.

Community members shared how the initiative has contributed to livelihood generation, environmental improvement, and greater participation of women in circular economy activities.

Stakeholders also discussed technology adoption, sustainability pathways, and opportunities to replicate the model in other coastal communities.

The delegation later met with Concepcion Mayor Milliard S. Villanueva to discuss future partnerships, investment opportunities, and strategies for scaling sustainable development initiatives within the municipality.

The discussions highlighted Concepcion’s potential as a living laboratory where local governments, research institutions, development agencies, and fisherfolk organizations can co-create community-driven solutions for the blue economy.

Together, the engagements demonstrated how science, policy, and partnerships can converge to create meaningful social impact.

By linking research innovations with community needs and investment opportunities, the CrabZero Project offers a replicable model for advancing circular economy solutions, strengthening coastal livelihoods, and building more resilient and sustainable communities.

CrabZero is implemented under the broader framework of the European Union-Philippines Green Economy Partnership, a PHP 3.67 billion, or EUR 60 million, flagship program of the European Union led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The program connects European and Filipino partners from the private sector and local governments to foster a circular economy while sustaining inclusive economic growth.

The Policy and Alliances component is co-funded through an EUR 12 million grant from the European Union and an EUR 1 million contribution from the International Climate Initiative of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety.

The component is implemented by GIZ and the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau. (R. Arduo)