About the Project
SUSHI-PACK (Sustainable Hybrid Innovative Packaging) is a collaborative research project funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme. The project brings together leading research institutions across Europe to develop the next generation of biodegradable packaging materials derived from marine resources.
The Challenge
Plastic packaging remains one of the most significant environmental challenges facing our planet. Over 40% of plastic produced globally is used for packaging, with the vast majority ending up in landfills or the natural environment. The European Union's Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan call for urgent innovation in sustainable packaging alternatives that can meet industrial demands while minimising environmental impact.
Our Approach
SUSHI-PACK takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining marine biology, polymer chemistry, materials science, and industrial engineering to develop packaging materials from seaweed-derived biopolymers. These materials offer unique advantages: they are naturally biodegradable, can be sourced sustainably from marine aquaculture, and possess excellent barrier properties suitable for food packaging applications.
Expected Impact
- Reduction in petroleum-based plastic packaging through viable bio-based alternatives
- Creation of new value chains linking marine aquaculture with the packaging industry
- Contribution to EU climate targets through lower-carbon packaging solutions
- Knowledge transfer to industry partners for commercial-scale production
Work Packages
WP1 — Marine Biomass Sourcing
Sustainable harvesting and processing of seaweed and algae biomass from European marine environments.
WP2 — Biopolymer Extraction & Characterisation
Development and optimisation of extraction processes for key biopolymers (alginate, carrageenan, agar) with targeted functional properties.
WP3 — Packaging Material Development
Formulation and testing of composite packaging materials meeting food-contact safety and mechanical performance requirements.
WP4 — Pilot Production & Scale-Up
Design and operation of pilot-scale production lines demonstrating industrial feasibility.
WP5 — Life Cycle Assessment & Sustainability
Comprehensive environmental and economic assessment of developed materials versus conventional packaging.
WP6 — Dissemination & Exploitation
Communication of results to stakeholders, policymakers, and the public; intellectual property management.
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This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.