TUS leads €4 million European project to replace traditional plastics with eco-friendly alternatives
Scientists at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) are leading a major €4 million European project to create the next generation of sustainable plastics.
The four-year Bio2PEs project, funded by the European Innovation Council (EIC), aims to revolutionize the plastic sectors by developing bio-based and biodegradable polyethylene (PE) and polyester, directly derived from biomass waste, to combat plastic pollution and advance sustainability. The project will develop four eco-friendly, functional prototypes for food packaging, textile packaging, agricultural mulch, and crop protection membranes, addressing key sectors in need of sustainable alternatives.
Dr. Yuanyuan Chen, Project Lead at TUS, said the project is a vital response to the global plastic waste crisis. “At TUS, we are passionate about finding practical solutions to the world’s biggest challenges. Bio2PEs represents a significant step forward in addressing the global plastic waste crisis.“
TUS is spearheading this collaboration between top European researchers and industry leaders, including:
- Agriculture and food development authority (Teagasc) Ireland
- University of Bristol (UoB), UK
- National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Greece
- National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut), Slovenia
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering (IMGGE), Serbia
- Digiotouch, France
- Nonwovens Innovation & Research Institute Limited (NIRI), United Kingdom
- ISOTECH LTD, Cyprus
This initiative directly supports Ireland’s goals under the EU Green Deal, moving the country toward a “circular economy” where waste is designed out of the system. By leading this project, TUS reinforces its university value of Sustainability, acting as a thought leader in the challenge of sustainable development.