The RECOVER project addresses the challenges of agri-food plastic waste through innovative biotechnological solutions. Efforts were dedicated to identifying types of agri-food waste plastics and developing logistical approaches for their management. Four target polymers—polystyrene (PS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—were selected for degradation and conversion. An efficient hyperspectral imaging system for sorting of these plastics was established. Candidate organisms and enzymes for biodegradation were identified, leading to the discovery of four microbial consortia capable of utilizing various plastics, particularly LLDPE/LDPE, and the development of two novel enzymes with significant activity on LLDPE. Additionally, the use of earthworms for soil bioremediation and vermicomposting, and insects for plastic ingestion was explored, initiating the upscaling of these solutions.
Formulations for the selected biotechnological tools were upscaled, and protocols for their combined application at the pilot scale were defined. These tools were tested both ex-situ (composting/vermicomposting and insect culture) and in-situ (soil bioremediation) for the degradation and conversion of agri-food plastic waste. Added-value downstream products, such as biofertilizers and chitin-based materials, were developed. These efforts were supported by techno-economic analyses, risk and social assessments, and the proposal of a preliminary logistic plan for implementing the RECOVER value chain in a rural area.
Despite extensive testing, complete degradation of agri-food waste plastics, especially LDPE, was not fully achieved. Adjustments to biodegradation protocols did not yield effective results in complete degradation, although it was confirmed that plastics could be chemically modified and broken into smaller pieces by worms and insects assisted by microorganisms. A predictive model was developed to simulate biodegradation under various conditions. By-products from the biodegradation processes were used to create biofertilizers and chitin-based products, such as mulch coatings and food packaging films. These products proved effective in extending shelf life, controlling plant pathogens, and promoting beneficial microorganisms in crops.
To enhance the visibility and impact of the RECOVER project, comprehensive communication and dissemination measures were implemented. This included a communication campaign utilizing the project website, social media, press releases, and event participation. The project’s results were shared through 23 scientific publications and various workshops and conferences. Additionally, the project sought external support from the Horizon Results Booster for two services: improving exploitation strategies for key results, including hyperspectral imaging, predictive biodegradation models, and biofertilizers, and developing a business plan to advance the hyperspectral imaging system towards market readiness.
