Over the past months, alchemia nova, working closely with project partners, community organisations, and local innovators, has made significant progress in advancing INSPIRE’s mission to reduce plastic waste in European rivers by moving biobased materials and zero plastic alternatives closer to real world application.
To build momentum behind these solutions, we have convened a broad cross sector coalition, securing more than 25 Memoranda of Understanding with municipal authorities, local associations, SMEs, research institutes, retailers, hotels, festivals, and art collectives, demonstrating strong shared commitment to plastic free alternatives and supporting ongoing efforts to test, showcase, and identify new application cases for INSPIRE’s plastic prevention innovations.
Displaying and testing zero plastic waste cosmetic products
One main direction has been engaging stakeholders to showcase, test, and evaluate the zero plastic cosmetic products developed by project partner 123Zero. Through outreach in Austria, Slovenia, and beyond, and with support from sister initiatives such as the REMEDIES project, we have connected retailers, local organisations, and other initiatives eager to explore those plastic free alternatives. Their feedback is helping to expand the network and increase the adoption potential of these new products, while raising awareness about minimising plastic waste within their respective communities.
Field tests of biodegradable mulch films with farmers
A second direction has been the field testing of PHA based mulch films and greenhouse foils, produced by project partner BIO MI, offering biodegradable replacements for conventional agricultural plastics. After successfully passing laboratory biodegradability and ecotoxicity tests, we have connected with several farmers in Austria as well as Greece, who are now testing the products in real life conditions, assessing their performance, durability, and usability – insights that will be crucial for validating and improving these biobased solutions.
Looking ahead
In the months ahead, we will continue expanding stakeholder engagement, supporting field tests, and showcasing plastic‑free solutions across Europe. We remain committed to driving the transition toward circular, nature‑positive materials—one collaborative step at a time!
