The exploitation of biomass and products of plant origin for obtaining energy dates back to the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution.

One of the first research lines in CARTIF was the one focused on agrofood. Optimize the manufacturing processes, develop new products, waste recovery, and extraction and isolation of natural products.

As a research centre, one of the objectives of CARTIF has always been to obtain an international presence. Aware that science, technology and innovation are a universal heritage that requires the sharing of information.

Valladolid, where CARTIF is based, is one of the most fortunate regions in Spain because it is surrounded by extensive wine-producing areas with a great variety of grapes and some of the best Designations of Origin in Spain and the world.

These 20 years of existence of CARTIF have coincided with a period very interesting from several points of view: historical, political, economic and technological, both in Spain and in the rest of the world.

Research in a technology centre such as CARTIF, emerges from the necessity of improving the processes of production, diffusion and use of scientific and technological knowledge.

According to one of the latest population projections from the National Statistical Institute, in 2050 there will be 7,2 million more people in the “over 64” age group, which will make up to 37% of the overall population in Spain.

This month of June has been marked by various events and episodes related to global climate change, energy efficiency and the environment.

Currently, energetic refurbishment of buildings has become a necessity that yields great social, economic and environmental benefits.

Hospitals contribute significantly to climate change owing to the natural resources and products they consume, as well as the waste generated from service deliveries.

The 21st century world is facing important environmental challenges that directly affect human beings and the rich biodiversity that surrounds them.

From the second half of the eighteenth century to the present, the global industry has lived several and deep transformations in order to adapt itself to the demand and take the most of the suitable technology.