10172053BraCeActiveCollaborative R&DInnovate UK**Bracken for the Circular Economy (BraCE)** is a project that transforms bracken, an invasive fern covering approximately 100,000 hectares in Wales, from a costly agricultural burden into a valuable resource for sustainable peat-free growing media. With government commitment to phase out peat use, there is urgent demand for alternatives to imported materials in the peat-free market, where wood fiber (44%) and bark (16%) are leading components alongside coir (20.7%), the last facing supply vulnerabilities and high carbon emissions. This innovative project is led by Agroceutical, a Welsh farmer organisation with academic support from Professor Prysor Williams team @ Bangor University, technical expertise from Melcourt Industries as consultants, and advanced materials research from Hendwr Ltd. The farmer-led approach addresses this challenge through systematic development of bracken-based growing media, ensuring practical solutions driven by real-world expertise. **BraCE** will investigate optimal harvesting strategy: spring (March-May) for maximum biomass from green fronds, versus autumn (October) for naturally dried material with reduced processing needs, enabling maximum biomass to maximize farmer/compost operator benefits. The technical approach focuses on evidence-based processing using fermentation in farm silage infrastructure to reduce ptaquiloside (the bracken toxin) levels, with optional enhancement through Hendwr's biodegradable materials for premium applications. The project will evaluate Hendwr's biobased additives that can enhance water retention properties while improving nitrogen and phosphorus nutrition availability, enabling bracken-based products to compete effectively with traditional materials while maintaining cost competitiveness and providing enhanced plant nutrition benefits. **BraCE** technical approach focuses on evidence-based processing using fermentation in farm silage infrastructure to reduce ptaquiloside (the bracken toxin) levels, with complementary enhancement technologies for value-added applications. Welsh farmers lead harvesting work packages for implementable solutions. **BraCE** creates economic opportunities: farmers gain revenue streams worth £1,000-2,000 per hectare annually, while the industry secures sustainable alternatives offering cost advantages. Hendwr benefits through research partnerships and potential commercial applications of specialized materials to the growing media industry. **BraCE** establishes Wales as a center for sustainable growing media innovation, contributing to the £250-350 million UK growing media market while supporting peatland conservation and rural development. Expected outcomes include validated protocols for seasonal materials, optimized formulations, and a scalable supply chain ready for replication. Commercialization through industry networks will deliver products to retail and commercial growers, with EU expansion potential. **BraCE** exemplifies circular economy principles, turning waste into value while boosting Wales' sustainable horticulture and rural economies.