Fehmarn Belt Innovation

The way our food consumption has developed over the last few centuries is no longer sustainable. New ways must be found to provide the population with healthy products that additionally do not harm the environment.  With the sea being an important regional source, blue biotechnology and marine resources for the food of the future will therefore be a key focus of the project.  However, the circular economy, waste prevention and new technologies for a sustainable food industry are also key priorities for clusters, trade associations, networks, chambers of commerce, research institutions, innovation and transfer centres, as well as businesses in the project region. 

The maritime sector is a key industry with significant potential for innovation on both sides of the Fehmarn Belt. The maritime sector generally encompasses all stages of the value chain relating to ships, as well as the construction and maintenance of ports, offshore wind farms, submarine cables and pipelines, and all types of underwater monitoring and communication technologies. The marine sector encompasses the use of all types of marine resources: algae, mussels, fish, seaweed, etc., and thus overlaps significantly with our focus area of Food & Biotech. However, food is not the only product derived from marine resources; cosmetics, medicines and building materials are also being produced. 

The future fixed link between Fehmarn and Lolland will consist of a 17.6 km tunnel, as well as the expansion of rail and road connections on both sides. It is currently the largest infrastructure project in Northern Europe. The opening is currently scheduled for 2029, with its success being driven by teamwork across many disciplines. Digitalization and sustainability are the two main drivers of innovation in the construction sector. Within these two megatrends, key topics include smart cities and intelligent buildings, IT-supported systems, timber construction, the circular economy, new materials and the recycling of building materials, with the overarching aim of reducing CO2 emissions and conserving resources.