The annual Agriculture Days 2025 exhibition opened yesterday with a remarkable display of innovation and sustainability from AZ Group, the Western Balkans’ pioneer in circular economy solutions. Their pavilion, prominently positioned at the exhibition’s entrance, drew continuous crowds eager to witness firsthand how science-driven approaches are transforming agricultural waste into valuable resources.
Circular Economy in Action
Walking through AZ Group’s exhibition space felt less like visiting a traditional agricultural supplier and more like stepping into a laboratory of the future. The company’s presentation centered around their “Waste to Value” philosophy, demonstrating how they’ve built Albania’s only zero-waste industrial facilities.
“Most people still think about waste as something to dispose of,” explained Drini Zusi, Business Development Director at AZ Group, while guiding visitors through interactive displays. “We’ve completely flipped that concept. What others throw away, we see as raw materials for creating valuable products.”
This isn’t just corporate talk. Since establishing the Western Balkans’ first rendering plant, AZ Group has developed eight agricultural and feed formulations along with four pharmaceutical formulations – all derived from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or waterways.
Science Meets Sustainability
What struck me most during my tour was the scientific rigor behind AZ Group’s approach. Unlike many companies that merely use sustainability as a marketing angle, AZ Group has invested heavily in research and development capabilities.
Their team includes several PhDs in chemistry and agricultural science who work to develop new applications for the proteins, fats, and other compounds they extract through their advanced bio-extraction processes. The results were on display throughout their exhibition space – from organic fertilizers and plant biostimulants to pharmaceutical ingredients.
“We’re probably the only company at this fair with a full laboratory setup,” noted Enio Zusi, CEO, pointing to a corner where visitors could observe actual testing procedures. “Innovation doesn’t happen by accident. We’ve built our entire business model around pushing scientific boundaries while maintaining strict environmental standards.”
From Farm Waste to Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of AZ Group’s presentation was their work in pharmaceutical applications. The company recently established Albania’s first manufacturing facility for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), creating a direct link between agricultural by-products and healthcare solutions.
“Most people would never imagine that animal by-products could eventually become components in human medicine,” said Alban Zusi, Chairman of AZ Group. “But that’s exactly what happens when you combine circular economy principles with pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing processes.”
This unexpected connection between agriculture and healthcare drew particular interest from international visitors, including several pharmaceutical company representatives who were seen taking detailed notes during technical presentations.
Triple Bottom Line in Practice
Beyond the technical innovations, AZ Group emphasized their commitment to a triple bottom line approach – balancing profit with benefits for people and planet.
“The old business model was simple: maximize profit regardless of environmental or social costs,” explained Drini Zusi during a panel discussion. “We’ve proven there’s a better way. Our circular approach actually generates more value while reducing environmental impact and creating skilled jobs in communities that need them.”
This approach has yielded measurable results. Company representatives shared data showing their negative carbon footprint – meaning their operations remove more carbon from the environment than they produce. They’ve also created over 200 jobs across their various facilities, many requiring specialized skills that have helped retain talented young professionals in Albania.
Farmer Testimonials
The exhibition included a video wall featuring testimonials from farmers who have used AZ Group’s agricultural products, particularly their organic fertilizers and biostimulants.
Besnik Hoxha, a vegetable farmer from Divjaka, described his experience: “I was skeptical at first – organic fertilizers usually mean lower yields but higher prices. But after trying AZ Fert for two seasons, my tomato production increased by almost 30%, and I’ve been able to reduce chemical pesticide use significantly. The plants are simply healthier and more resistant.”
Similar stories came from livestock farmers who have incorporated AZ Group’s animal feed additives into their operations, reporting improved animal health and reduced veterinary costs.
Looking Forward
As Agriculture Days 2025 continues through the weekend, AZ Group’s exhibition stands as a compelling example of how traditional industries can be transformed through scientific innovation and environmental consciousness.
“What we’re showing here isn’t just about our company,” concluded Alban Zusi. “It’s about a different vision for Albania’s agricultural future – one where waste doesn’t exist, where science drives innovation, and where sustainability and profitability go hand in hand.”
For many visitors, including this journalist, that vision seems not just appealing but increasingly necessary in a world facing mounting environmental challenges. If companies like AZ Group can turn animal by-products into everything from pet food to pharmaceuticals while maintaining zero waste, perhaps the circular economy isn’t just an idealistic concept but a practical business model ready for wider adoption.
As I left the exhibition, I noticed something unusual – despite being located near the food court area, there was no unpleasant odor around AZ Group’s rendering plant displays. When I mentioned this to Drini Zusi, he smiled. “That’s another misconception we’re happy to disprove. With proper technology and processes, even rendering can be clean and odor-free. It’s all part of making sustainability accessible and acceptable to everyone.”
That accessibility may ultimately be AZ Group’s most important innovation – making circular economy solutions practical, profitable, and palatable for mainstream adoption.
