The UPCYCLE project, launched in Ghent, Belgium, marks a major step toward eliminating non-recyclable plastics from the packaging industry. Funded by Horizon Europe under the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA) and coordinated by Aalborg University (Denmark), the initiative unites 19 partners from 12 countries to create circular value chains that transform plastic waste into recyclable, non-persistent materials.
With over 460 million tonnes of plastics produced annually worldwide and just 9% effectively recycled, the project addresses one of Europe’s most pressing environmental challenges. By integrating Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design principles, AI-powered process intensification, and smart polymerisation strategies, UPCYCLE aims to deliver next-generation materials for flexible food packaging, beverage bottles, and personal care products—sectors where recyclability and biodegradability are critical.
A key partner, AIMPLAS – the Plastics Technology Centre (Spain), will bridge research and industrial application by developing new polyesters and copolyesters such as PEF, PBAF, and PLA blends. The centre will lead end-of-life assessments—covering biodegradation, compostability, and mechanical recycling—while ensuring compliance, market readiness, and environmental safety.
Building on the H2020 UPLIFT project, UPCYCLE moves to demonstration scale, targeting a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to current bioplastics by 2029. The consortium, spanning academia, industry, and policy experts, aims to support the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and the Single-Use Plastics Directive, laying the groundwork for a new generation of circular, safe, and sustainable packaging solutions.
