An ERDF co-funded project will study a range of natural, bio-based fibres and assess their suitability for mass production. These materials could replace plastics in food packaging, filters, textiles, hygiene products and construction materials. A major challenge with many of these plastic products is their low recyclability. For example, only 14 % of plastic packaging is recycled. The majority of plastics end up burned or landfilled. Over half of the businesses participating in the project are
- 01 May 2020
An ERDF co-funded project will study a range of natural, bio-based fibres and assess their suitability for mass production. These materials could replace plastics in food packaging, filters, textiles, hygiene products and construction materials.
A major challenge with many of these plastic products is their low recyclability. For example, only 14 % of plastic packaging is recycled. The majority of plastics end up burned or landfilled.
Over half of the businesses participating in the project are from Finland. Of these 18 out of 28 are SMEs. According to a lead researcher involved, the project will create a better understanding of bio-based fibres so new types of recyclable materials can be brought to market that do not burden the environment.
A total of 52 businesses are participating in the EUR 6.7 million Piloting Alternatives for Plastics project.
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Source article on : www.kaleva.fi on 15/04/2020
Project and/or programme: https://www.vttresearch.com/
Author: Markus Leskinen
Photo: © iStock/RecycleMan