Bio-based and biodegradable plastic products (BBpP) are emerging as a key solution to the negative impact of fossil-based plastics on the environment.
A relevant case in which BBpP can play a key role in preventing pollution is that of single-use applications used in humanitarian contexts (such as natural disasters or armed conflicts), where adequate waste management systems are often not feasible. Plastic waste, mainly healthcare and packaging waste, contributes significantly to uncontrolled waste in humanitarian contexts, so its environmental impact needs to be addressed.
One of the most promising biodegradable biopolymers is the polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family, which offers functionality, is biocompatible, but is also fully biodegradable in relevant environments without causing microplastic pollution.
ANIPH will create a new PHA value chain to produce modern dressings and recyclable packaging that act as a barrier against water, while being biodegradable in all relevant environments (soil, fresh water, marine). Biodegradation will be programmed during the production, formulation and composition, and conversion phases of PHA. An AI prediction tool and a digital traceability tool will support these objectives by predicting biodegradation, properties and ecotoxicity, and ensuring the traceability of materials and products. In addition, sustainable options, proper use and safe disposal of BBpP will be promoted through ANIPH’s contribution to information and labelling systems and the provision of resources for capacity building.
Our project brings together eight partners from six European countries who are leaders in different fields of knowledge, from bioplastic production to end-of-life assessment.
The adoption of the ANIPH value chain will produce significant results: annual savings of 22.43 kt of crude oil thanks to a 43% and 68% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to fossil-based packaging and dressings, recirculation of 1,475 kt of biomass, and avoidance of the use of 12.93 kt of hazardous substances.
Funded by the Horizon Europe Programme. HORIZON.2.6 – Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment
