On January 12, 2026, it was reported that the EU's ToFuel project, led by Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), has officially commenced. The project aims to transform residues generated during tomato production, including leaves, stems, seeds, peels, and substandard fruits, into climate-friendly aviation fuel, while also producing fertilizers, animal feed, and nutritional oils. It seeks to establish a zero-waste, carbon-neutral biorefinery system, contributing to the decarbonization of the aviation industry.

The project brings together 11 partners from seven European countries, including research institutions and industrial enterprises. Companies such as Mutti and Podravka will provide tomato residues and share their expertise in processing plant materials. The project will also train at least six doctoral candidates, twelve master's degree students, and fifteen bachelor's degree students. With a total budget of €3.5 million and a duration of four years, €1 million will be allocated to the research conducted by the lead institution, Graz University of Technology.

The core objective of the project is to achieve economic competitiveness for aviation fuel derived from tomato residues, making sustainable aviation fuel commercially viable. This technology not only addresses the challenge of agricultural waste disposal but also creates new revenue streams for food processing companies. It holds significant ecological, economic, and social importance, injecting new momentum into the green transformation of the aviation industry.

The EU's ToFuel Project Has Officially Launched, Aiming to Convert Tomato Production Residues into Climate-Friendly Aviation Fuel