Aimplas joins GREEN project on biodegradable fertiliser systems
The European GREEN project will develop bio-based, biodegradable nutrient delivery systems as alternatives to conventional polymer coatings for fertilisers. Aimplas will work on microcapsules and polyelectrolytes.
Aimplas, the Plastics Technology Centre, is participating in GREEN (Generating sustainable, Responsible, Effective, and Eco-frieNdly delivery systems for fertilising products), a European project coordinated by the University of Birmingham. The project has received almost €3 million in funding from the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). It aims to develop bio-based biodegradable delivery systems (BBDS) for fertilisers as alternatives to conventional polymer-based coatings used in enhanced efficiency fertilisers (EEFs).
EEFs are designed to improve nutrient uptake by crops and reduce nutrient losses to the environment. However, many existing fertiliser delivery systems use polymer coatings that are not biodegradable and can contribute to microplastic accumulation in agricultural soils. According to the project consortium, conventional polymer-coated fertilisers release approximately 22,500 tonnes of microplastics each year in the European Economic Area. GREEN aims to address this issue with biodegradable alternatives derived from renewable plant-based feedstocks.
Controlled nutrient release and Aimplas's role
The delivery systems will be designed to respond to environmental conditions and crop requirements, allowing controlled nutrient release while remaining fully biodegradable in soil and water. The project intends the solutions for both conventional and organic farming.
Aimplas will coordinate and develop BBDS in the form of microcapsules and polyelectrolytes, using a range of technologies, including mechanochemistry. GREEN brings together 12 partners from 10 European countries, with expertise from academia, research organisations, industry and the agricultural sector.
The project is expected to deliver four large-scale bio-based fertiliser delivery systems and demonstrate their technical, environmental and economic viability. The technologies developed could also be applied to seed coatings and plant protection products. GREEN seeks to reduce microplastic pollution, improve nutrient use efficiency and support the transition towards a circular and sustainable bioeconomy in Europe.