During Reporting Period 1 (M1–M18), VINNY achieved substantial progress towards all objectives, fully aligned with Annex 1. The project established the scientific, technological and organisational foundations for developing and scaling nano-enabled biopesticides (BPs), biofertilisers (BFs) and functional agrotextiles for sustainable viticulture.
Under RIO1, extensive vineyard sampling in Portugal, Spain, Austria and Denmark enabled the creation of comprehensive microbial and plant-derived bioactive libraries. Over 250 microbial isolates were screened against key grapevine pathogens, leading to the identification and molecular characterisation of at least six highly promising biopesticide candidates, together with phenolic-rich vine extracts. High-throughput in vitro and ex vivo assays supported candidate selection, achieving approximately 90% of the RIO1 KPI, with optimisation ongoing.
RIO2 focused on circular biofertilisers derived from sewage sludge, pruning residues and meat industry by-products. Biochars were produced and characterised, nitrogen-rich fractions recovered, and initial formulations combining nutrient-rich biochar and nitrogen sources developed. At least six promising mixtures were defined, with strong potential to replace mineral fertilisers.
For RIO3, core nanoencapsulation and agrotextile platforms were established. Selected bioactives and biofertilisers entered passive and stimuli-responsive nanoformulation development, targeting controlled release and improved stability. Lab-scale production of first nanoBPs was initiated, and agrotextile delivery concepts were launched.
Under RIO4, harmonised validation frameworks were set up, including advanced in vitro and grape berry assays and baseline vineyard performance definition, preparing for in planta and field trials in later stages.
RIO5 ensured early integration of safety and sustainability. A Safe and Sustainable-by-Design Platform (SSbD-P) was implemented, and methodologies for LCA, LCC, Social LCA and nanotoxicological assessment were initiated.
Regarding RIO6, dissemination and exploitation activities progressed strongly, including delivery of the initial plan, launch of the website and social media, clustering with EU projects, and the conceptual design of three Living Labs and one VINNY Lighthouse.
All RP1 deliverables were submitted or are advancing according to agreed amendments. Although no formal milestones were planned, the progress achieved confirms the scientific robustness, feasibility and readiness of VINNY to enter validation, scaling and impact-oriented phases in RP2.
