SciTransfer
Be-UP · Project

High-Performance Biodegradable Plastic Packaging Developed via Digital Modeling and Advanced Engineering

manufacturingTestedTRL 7

Imagine creating a plastic wrap or bottle that acts like traditional plastic but disappears naturally without leaving trash behind. Instead of guessing the recipe, researchers use computer simulations to design the perfect blend of plant-based materials. They are testing these in real-world settings to make sure they actually break down in nature, not just in a lab.

By the numbers
50,000
tonnes of non-biodegradable plastics replaced by 2032
120,000
CO2 eq tonnes saved yearly
The business problem

What needed solving

Current biodegradable plastics often fail to meet the technical performance of traditional plastics or do not actually decompose in real-world environments, creating a gap between lab results and actual end-of-life behavior.

The solution

What was built

The project is building new biopolyester blends and digital modeling tools for synthesis. It will produce TRL7 packaging prototypes validated for biodegradation and recyclability.

Audience

Who needs this

Plastic packaging manufacturersBiopolymer chemical producersSustainable brand ownersWaste management and recycling firms
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Consumer Packaging
enterprise
Target: Flexible packaging manufacturer

If you are a packaging manufacturer dealing with strict plastic waste regulations — this project developed bioplastic blends for blown film extrusion that maintain technical performance while ensuring biodegradation. This allows you to offer eco-friendly alternatives that actually decompose in open environments.

Consumer Electronics/Goods
mid-size
Target: Injection molding company

If you are a molding company dealing with the high carbon footprint of petroleum plastics — this project developed new biopolyester materials optimized for injection moulding. This enables the production of rigid biodegradable parts that reduce CO2 emissions.

Food Service
SME
Target: Disposable food container producer

If you are a container producer dealing with the need for heat-stable biodegradable trays — this project developed materials specifically for thermoforming. This ensures the packaging is functional for food use and meets strict end-of-life sustainability goals.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the expected cost or price of these materials?

Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost-reduction figures are not provided.

Can this be produced at an industrial scale?

Yes, the project focuses on primary industrial production techniques including blown film extrusion, injection moulding, and thermoforming to ensure industrial viability.

How is the intellectual property or licensing handled?

Based on available project data, the specific IP and licensing terms are not disclosed.

What is the timeline for implementation?

The project runs from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2029, with a target impact goal set for 2032.

How does this integrate with current regulations?

The project contributes to the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) guidelines and aims to improve standardization for testing and labelling of packaging.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily industry-driven with a 59% industry ratio, comprising 10 industrial partners and 7 SMEs. This strong commercial presence, spanning 9 countries, suggests a high likelihood of market adoption and practical application of the developed bioplastics.

How to reach the team

Contact the Instituto Tecnológico del Embalaje, Transporte y Logística in Spain.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to find a partner for the Be-UP bioplastic pilot phase.

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