From underutilised fibres to future materials: insights from the BIO-2-PRINT meeting in Finland
In January 2026, Future Cast joined project partners in Kokkola, Finland, for a BIO-2-PRINT partner meeting combined with a public online networking event. The gathering brought together research organisations, industry experts, SMEs and regional actors to discuss how underutilised natural fibres can be transformed into reliable, scalable materials for construction and manufacturing.
Rather than focusing solely on research results, the discussions centred on real-world implementation — what it takes to move circular materials from pilot projects into industry-ready solutions.
From waste to worth: building viable value chains
A key theme throughout the meeting was the importance of value chains, not just materials. While bio-based and fibre-enhanced composites show strong technical potential, successful adoption depends on a connected ecosystem — from feedstock supply and processing to manufacturing, regulation and end use.
Participants highlighted that industry needs consistent quality, predictable performance and long-term availability in order to confidently adopt new materials. Circular innovation must therefore be economically viable as well as environmentally beneficial.
Materials and processes must evolve together
In the context of 3D construction printing, the discussions reinforced that materials cannot be developed in isolation. Printability, early strength development, durability and process control are closely linked to the performance of the printing system itself.
Insights from pilot-scale testing showed that progress happens fastest when materials science, printer technology and on-site experience are developed together. Testing under real operating conditions — not only in laboratory environments — was identified as a critical step toward industrial uptake.
Digital tools as enablers of trust and scalability
Digital construction technologies were also highlighted as key enablers for the circular transition. Tools such as digital twins, 3D scanning, monitoring systems and data-driven quality control help reduce risk, improve transparency and support decision-making when introducing new materials into conservative sectors like construction.
These technologies play an important role in building confidence, both for regulators and for industry actors considering new manufacturing approaches.
Collaboration across borders and sectors
Another strong takeaway from the meeting was the importance of cross-border and cross-sector collaboration. No single organisation can drive the transition to circular construction alone. BIO-2-PRINT demonstrates how cooperation between research institutions, SMEs, technology providers and regional innovation organisations can accelerate learning and reduce barriers to adoption.
Future Cast’s contribution within BIO-2-PRINT
Within BIO-2-PRINT, Future Cast contributes expertise in 3D construction printing, materials testing and digital construction technologies, helping bridge the gap between research and real-world application.
Through its role in pilot-scale testing, industry training and large-format 3D construction printing, Future Cast supports the transition from laboratory research to practical, scalable solutions. The Finland meeting reaffirmed the importance of this applied perspective in shaping materials and processes that industry can adopt with confidence.
Looking ahead
As BIO-2-PRINT progresses, the insights gathered in Finland will guide the next project steps — refining materials, strengthening value chains and supporting the transition from pilot demonstrations to commercial-scale implementation.
Turning underutilised fibres into valuable construction materials is no longer a distant vision. It is a challenge being actively addressed today through collaboration, testing and shared learning across the Northern Periphery and Arctic region.
About BIO-2-PRINT
BIO-2-PRINT is an Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic (NPA) project co-funded by the European Union. The project aims to build sustainable and economically viable value chains for underutilised natural fibres, transforming them into feedstock for polymer and concrete 3D printing in construction and manufacturing. By supporting circular solutions, BIO-2-PRINT contributes to a more resource-efficient and climate-resilient economy.
