SciTransfer
LCA4BIO · Project

Standardized Sustainability Certification Tools for Bio-Based Products and Emerging Green Technologies

environmentTestedTRL 4

Imagine trying to prove your new eco-friendly plastic is actually better for the planet than oil-based plastic, but everyone uses a different ruler to measure it. This project creates a single, trusted 'ruler' that accounts for things like land use and carbon timing. It helps companies prove their green claims so investors and regulators actually believe them.

By the numbers
143
circularity indicators mapped
2050
target year for climate neutrality
10
consortium partners
The business problem

What needed solving

Companies struggle to prove the sustainability of bio-based products because current measurement methods are inconsistent and ignore key factors like biogenic carbon and land use. This uncertainty scares away investors and slows down regulatory approval.

The solution

What was built

["A dynamic carbon footprint method integrating temporal data.", "A library of 143 circularity indicators with practical application guidance.", "Prospective LCA tools for low-TRL technologies to predict future environmental impacts."]

Audience

Who needs this

Bio-plastic manufacturersSustainable chemical producersBio-refinery operatorsGreen investment fundsEnvironmental certification bodies
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Bioplastics
SME
Target: Bio-polymer manufacturer

If you are a bio-polymer manufacturer dealing with inconsistent sustainability ratings across different markets — this project developed harmonized LCA methodologies that provide reliable data for certification schemes. This allows you to prove your product's lower carbon footprint to international buyers.

Chemicals
SME
Target: Green chemistry startup

If you are a green chemistry startup dealing with low-TRL technologies that lack historical data — this project developed prospective LCA approaches for early-stage tech. This reduces investment risks by predicting environmental impacts before full-scale production.

Agriculture
enterprise
Target: Bio-refinery operator

If you are a bio-refinery operator dealing with complex land-use and biodiversity impact queries — this project developed refined assessment methods covering 143 circularity indicators. This helps you optimize resource efficiency and meet zero-pollution objectives.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

How does this affect the price or cost of my products?

Based on available project data, the project does not provide specific cost figures, but it aims to reduce investment risks for innovative technologies by providing more accurate environmental impact predictions.

Can these methods be used for industrial-scale production?

Yes, the project specifically addresses up-scaling and future scenarios via Integrated Assessment Models to compare emerging technologies with current market systems.

Who owns the IP or how is the licensing handled?

Based on available project data, the specific licensing terms are not mentioned, but the results are intended to be integrated into certification schemes to enable international trade.

Will this help me comply with EU regulations?

Yes, it is designed to align with the EU Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan to support climate neutrality by 2050.

How long does it take to implement these assessments?

The project runs from 2024-01-01 to 2026-12-31, with methodologies currently being refined and tested in real-world case studies.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is well-balanced for commercial translation, featuring 10 partners across 7 countries. With a 30% industry ratio (3 industrial partners) and 2 SMEs, the project ensures that the developed methodologies are grounded in market needs rather than just academic theory.

How to reach the team

Contact CONTACTICA SL in Spain for methodology access

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to find the right certification partner for your bio-based product.

More in Environment & Climate
See all Environment & Climate projects