The Flemish government’s Environmental and Energy Technology Innovation Platform (MIP) recently put out its third call for projects looking for funding in this field, and some of the contenders were on show – an indication of the direction Flanders could take in the future in the field of eco-innovation. Among those on show were a project to recycle heat produced in the various activities of the Port of Antwerp and a lo-tech system for recycling the materials in used furniture.

Visitors could vote for their favourite among a number of successful applicants for funding in the second round of MIP – a contest won by a project to grow algae for use in the chemical industry from nutrients found in waste water. The Flanders Cleantech Association also showcases Flemish innovation in this area worldwide and will take part next month in the Global Cleantech Cluster forum in Dublin.