A Technology Roadmap for the Açaí Value-Chain Valorization

Fernanda Cardoso (), Silvio Vaz Junior, Mariana Doria and Suzana Borschiver
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Fernanda Cardoso: School of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, Brazil
Silvio Vaz Junior: Embrapa Agroenergia, Biological Station Park, North Wing, Brasília 70770-901, Brazil
Mariana Doria: A4F—Algae for Future, Estrada do Paço do Lumiar, Campus do Lumiar, 1649-038 Lisbon, Portugal
Suzana Borschiver: School of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, Brazil

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-28

Abstract: Açaí, a berry emblematic of Amazonian biodiversity, is a major Brazilian product whose market value is largely concentrated in its pulp, leaving the residual biomass—particularly the fibrous seed—underexploited and typically discarded in landfills, with negative environmental and social consequences. To address this gap, this study employs a systematic technology roadmapping approach, integrating bibliometric analysis, patent landscaping, and expert consultations to consolidate fragmented data. This methodology enables the mapping of innovation trajectories across technology readiness levels, product categories, market segments, and key stakeholders. The roadmap identifies emerging trends and opportunity windows for valorizing açaí biomass via integrated biorefinery approaches, moving beyond traditional low-complexity uses such as thermal energy and seed-derived coffee substitutes. The highlighted products include pharmaceutical extracts, cosmetic ingredients, nanopapers, and cellulose nanocrystals, leveraging the biomass’s biochemical composition, notably antioxidants, mannose, and inulin. This methodological framework facilitates a dynamic analysis of technological maturation and market evolution, offering strategic insights to guide industrial investments and policy development. Findings indicate that biorefinery integration enhances resource efficiency and product diversification, situating açaí biomass valorization within broader bioeconomy strategies. The study demonstrates the efficacy of technology roadmapping in structuring prospective innovation pathways and in supporting the sustainable utilization of the Amazonian biomass.

Keywords: innovation mapping; waste valorization; Euterpe oleracea; biodiversity; bioeconomy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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