PerPlacsBio project launched to expand knowledge base of bio-based and biodegradable plastics

In Germany, the University of Münster, the University of Applied Forest Sciences Rottenburg and the nova-Institute have launched the project PerPlacsBio – Prospects for bio-based and biodegradable plastics in agriculture and forestry. The project is funded by the Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR) under the programme “Sustainable Renewable Resources”.

The nova-Institute will expand the existing knowledge base on bio-based and biodegradable plastics, particularly with regard to alternatives, standards, norms, certification schemes, political framework conditions and decision-making criteria. The Universities of Münster and Rottenburg will conduct surveys in the agricultural and forestry sectors to better understand user needs, perceptions and barriers to adoption.

Together with stakeholders from industry, academia and policy, the consortium will discuss the feasibility of alternative materials and measures. Throughout the project, the nova-Institute will organise several workshops to present findings, gather feedback and integrate practical experience into the project work.

PerPlacsBio directly builds on the project BioSinn – Products for which biodegradation makes sense –  funded by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (funding code 2219NR197). BioSinn identified 25 product types for which biodegradation is environmentally meaningful because collection, separation or recycling is not feasible in practice or economically.