500 industry professionals from around the world meet in Riga for 23rd EFPRA Congress
From 4 to 7 June, Riga became the epicentre of the global animal by-products (ABP) recycling industry, hosting the 23rd Congress of the European Fat Processing and Animal By-products Recyclers Association (EFPRA). Bringing together more than 500 professionals from all over the world, this event is the most important industry forum of the year, bringing together policy makers, scientists, business and industry leaders to discuss current challenges and future directions.
The Congress programme focused on sustainable development, innovation and the regulatory environment in the ABP and feed industry. Key topics ranged from the use of animal fats for renewable energy production (under the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED)) and regulatory alignment with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) standards, to the inclusion of alternative proteins in feed formulation including aquaculture and pet food, innovation in aquafeeds and challenges for the European leather processing industry.
The congress featured high-level speakers including representatives from the European Commission (DG SANTÉ), the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation (FEFAC), the University of Milan, as well as Kevin McGuinty, CEO of SCB Group. EFPRA’s annual industry report was also presented, providing a comprehensive overview of developments and trends in the sector.
Latvia’s role in the global circular economy
The EFPRA Congress in Riga attests Latvia’s ability to host international professional forums and actively participate in the development of the global food system and the circular economy. The event not only highlights Latvia’s hospitality and professional competences but also promotes the country’s visibility as a trusted partner in promoting sustainable development.
The Congress was organised by LINEN, a Latvian company that has been active in the processing and marketing of ABP for more than 30 years. The company, currently headed by Zane and Jānis Kuļikovskis, has become a major player in the global market, supplying products to more than 50 countries in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. In 2024, LINEN supplied 132 000 tonnes of recycled products, contributing to the reduction of food waste and carbon emissions. The company actively collaborates with universities, industry associations (EFPRA, BNI, NARA) and other partners to develop sustainable solutions for animal feed, organic fertilisers, biofuels and industrial products.
Zane Kuļikovska, Member of the Board at LINEN, highlights: “This Congress was a unique opportunity not only to discuss latest developments in the sector, but also to showcase Latvia’s professionalism and hospitality on a global scale. We are proud to host world-class experts in Riga and to promote discussions on sustainable use of resources.”
Culture and networking
In addition to the extensive agenda, the Congress offered a rich social programme highlighting Latvian culture, traditions and cuisine. According to EFPRA Secretary General Dirk Dobbelaere, Riga is an ideal location for such an event, combining a rich history in trade with a modern entrepreneurial spirit. The organisers from LINEN made sure that the participants enjoyed both professional discussions and Latvia’s unique cultural heritage.
The ABP recycling sector is an essential part of the circular economy, converting by-products into high-quality raw materials for feed, fertiliser, biofuels and technical products. EFPRA, representing the interests of the sector in more than 20 countries, promotes a science-based approach and rigorous quality standards in cooperation with EU institutions and international organisations. The Congress in Riga thus became a platform for the industry to find solutions to global challenges, including reducing food waste, achieving climate neutrality targets and developing innovative products
