Marie Demarcke

Bioengineer Chemistry Food Technology

In 2007, after her studies at KU Leuven, Marie worked on a large project at BIRA in Brussels estimating the impact of the Zoniënwoud on the air quality in Brussels. Although tree emissions are quite fascinating, she was more interested in food.

In 2011, she concluded her scientific work with a PhD from Ghent University and started working for Flanders’ FOOD. It’s only a small step from green trees to green algae. Marie is very invested in the broad topic of sustainability and her new/current job seems to fit the bill perfectly. After a number of projects about micro-algae as a new potential food source, projects about insects and microbial protein followed. These projects fall under the 'New & Shifting Resources’ program.

Making our agri-food system more sustainable also means handling our natural resources in a more efficient manner. Marie manages projects about the reduction of food waste in the chain and the valorisation of by-products. During the last four years, Marie has established a firm network in the framework of ‘Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland Food from Food’, for optimum valorisation of by-products and food waste in new food products.

Sustainability is a broad theme, and since 2019, Marie has also taken water projects under her wings. With a project like Sucr'eau, the link to valorizing side streams is clear. In 2020, the Smart WaterUse project was launched, culminating in the publication of the Water Barometer in 2023—a powerful tool to guide companies towards more sustainable water management. Even after the project's completion, water remains a relevant topic, and Marie continues to provide support and advice related to this tool and theme. Since 2025, Marie has also taken on the energy theme and supports her colleagues on the Rethink Energy 4 Food project, focusing on the follow-up and guidance of companies. As an advisor, Marie brings years of experience and expertise to optimally advise businesses on their innovation challenges and sustainability journeys.

Marie likes to be around people or ride her bike. Recumbent bike, tandem bike, cargo bike, folding bike: she loves them all!