Stored sheep wool has become a major waste issue in Aragon, with approximately 400 million kg accumulated in warehouses, causing environmental and health concerns. This waste has worsened due to shifts in fashion trends favoring synthetic fibers, the COVID-19 crisis, and a sheep pox epidemic in 2022, all of which resulted in a stagnant wool market. Furthermore, regulations prevent its disposal in landfills, leaving farmers with no sustainable way to handle it.

The proposed solution involves extracting keratin from the wool using a novel microwave technique, which breaks down the wool into valuable keratin for use in industries like cosmetics, textiles, and biomedicine. This method is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional chemical extraction methods.

The technology is already used successfully in other parts of the world, which validates its applicability. The process requires standard microwave equipment, making it scalable and replicable. Furthermore, it can stimulate rural economies by collaborating with local farmers and processing facilities. This innovation not only adds value to an underutilized by-product but also aligns with sustainable and circular economy principles.

While the keratin extraction process has been proven feasible in other countries, the main challenge lies in replicating it effectively in Aragon. Ensuring the successful implementation of this solution is crucial for resolving the wool waste problem in the region.