The PRESERVE Innovation Roadmap: a vision for sustainable packaging

As the PRESERVE project ends, we present one of its achievements—the PRESERVE Innovation Roadmap. This strategic document encapsulates four years of research under the Horizon 2020 framework, setting a new benchmark for the sustainability of packaging materials.

Transformative innovations in packaging

At the heart of the PRESERVE project lies a commitment to innovation. The roadmap details key advancements, including:

• Protein-based and PHA coatings: Revolutionary materials that enhance the functionality and sustainability of packaging by leveraging biodegradable and bio-based components.
• Enzymatic delamination processes: A cutting-edge approach to separate multi-layer materials for recycling, addressing one of the most persistent challenges in packaging waste management.
• Decision Support Systems (DSS): Advanced tools designed to optimize the lifecycle of materials, facilitating efficient and sustainable pathways from production to end-of-life.

These innovations not only improve the environmental footprint of packaging but also set the stage for their integration into market-ready solutions.

Overcoming challenges: scaling and market readiness

While the technical breakthroughs of PRESERVE are noteworthy, the roadmap also sheds light on the journey toward commercialization. The transition from research to market is fraught with challenges, including:

• Economic viability: Ensuring cost-competitive solutions that can rival traditional packaging materials.
• Regulatory compliance: Navigating complex frameworks to meet sustainability standards.
• Logistical hurdles: Establishing supply chains capable of supporting bio-based innovations at scale.

By addressing these obstacles, the roadmap provides a comprehensive framework to guide stakeholders through the intricacies of scaling sustainable solutions.

Collaboration: The key to success

PRESERVE’s success is rooted in its collaborative approach. With 23 partners across 10 countries, the project exemplifies the interdisciplinary effort required to tackle sustainability challenges. This broad coalition of researchers and industry leadershas driven progress and fostered the cross-sector synergy needed for impactful change.

A guide for stakeholders

The PRESERVE Innovation Roadmap is more than a summary of achievements; it is a tool for action. Designed for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers, the document outlines:

• Actionable recommendations: Steps to integrate biobased materials and circular economy practices into packaging solutions.
• Policy guidance: Insights into aligning industry practices with regulatory and societal goals.
• Market integration strategies: Pathways to bridge the gap between lab-scale innovations and commercial applications.

A Sustainable Future for Packaging

The PRESERVE Innovation Roadmap lays the foundation for a future where packaging aligns with environmental and societal goals. By bridging the gap between research and commercialization, it offers a clear pathway toward a more sustainable packaging industry. Together, let’s make the vision of PRESERVE a reality.

Download it now from Zenodo.