AEP-Pulse is a cross-border research project focused on circular production in three innovative sectors: aquaculture, insect farming and plant cultivation. These sectors face challenges such as raw material scarcity, environmental pressure and labour shortages. AEP-Pulse is developing and demonstrating the Aqua-Entomo-Ponics (AEP) system, in which waste streams from one sector serve as raw materials for another. This leads to more sustainable, efficient and socially acceptable production methods.
The project is funded by the Interreg programme (European Territorial Cooperation) with co-funding from the European Union (ERDF). The aim is to strengthen sustainable food production and the circular use of resources in the North Sea region.
Food production systems are under pressure from climate change, water scarcity, nutrient loss and the environmental impact of conventional agriculture and aquaculture. At the same time, there is a growing need for resilient production methods that use water, nutrients and space more efficiently.
Aquaponics and related integrated systems offer opportunities to close nutrient cycles, reduce emissions and produce high-quality food with a smaller ecological footprint. However, large-scale applications remain limited due to technical, economic and knowledge-related barriers.
Practical solutions
AEP-Pulse brings together partners who will jointly develop and test practical solutions in real-life systems. The project focuses on improving system performance, including water quality management, sensor-based monitoring and the use of biostimulants, such as products based on seaweed and insects, in crop and aquaculture production. By combining technical optimisation with applied research and demonstration, the project aims to make these systems more robust, scalable and attractive to growers and entrepreneurs.
Learning, testing and knowledge transfer
The project is divided into work packages. Within the technical work packages, partners are conducting trials in various systems and contexts, with an emphasis on system design, monitoring and performance optimisation. These activities are aimed at maximising nutrient uptake, reducing water consumption and minimising energy requirements, thereby improving the overall efficiency and sustainability of aquaponic and integrated production systems.
This involves identifying measurement points, utilising sensors and data, and investigating the role of biostimulants in plant and aquatic production to optimise system performance. The results of these pilot projects form the basis for practical guidelines and improved system designs.
Knowledge exchange and education
The project places a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange and education. Through a dedicated work package, the results are translated into learning materials, training activities and communication tools for students, professionals and other stakeholders. In this way, AEP-Pulse ensures that knowledge is effectively shared and integrated into practice.
HZ University of Applied Sciences contributes its expertise in the fields of applied research, sustainable aquaculture and system integration. HZ is involved in testing and evaluating systems and in translating project results into educational and dissemination activities, thereby linking research, practice and learning environments.
Further information about the project and the consortium can be found on this project website.