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Circular-by-design fibre-based packaging with improved properties

The HORIZON-JU-CBE-2025-IAFlag-03 funding call aims to support innovation in circular fibre-based packaging with enhanced properties. The focus is on scaling up production technologies and establishing a full-scale manufacturing facility for sustainable, large-scale fibre-based packaging production. The initiative aligns with the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, Circular Economy Action Plan, and Zero Pollution Action Plan.

This call seeks to promote sustainable alternatives to fossil-based plastic packaging, which accounts for over 40% of global plastic production but has a low recycling rate. Fibre-based packaging, currently making up 40% of EU packaging materials, has well-established recycling routes. The objective is to enhance the material’s properties to meet diverse market needs and regulatory standards.

Projects funded under this call should achieve TRL 8 by the project's end, demonstrating the practical application of fibre-based materials in packaging solutions. They should also address the integration of bio-based add-ons, ensuring end-of-life recyclability, reuse, or remanufacturing. Consideration of consumer perception and regulatory compliance is crucial, alongside the application of the Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) framework.

Successful projects will contribute to the EU's sustainability goals, create new skilled job opportunities, and encourage market uptake of bio-based packaging solutions. They must avoid overlaps with existing initiatives and explore synergies with other funding instruments.

Opening: 04-04-2025
Deadline(s): 17-09-2025

Expected Outcome

• Full-scale manufacturing facility for fibre-based packaging.
• Increased range of circular bio-based packaging products.
• Improved sustainability, safety, and recyclability of packaging.
• New job opportunities and investments in bio-based sectors.
• Market adoption of innovative fibre-based packaging.
• Enhanced environmental sustainability of packaging materials.
• Compliance with EU sustainability and waste management policies.
• Integration of consumer preferences in product development.
• Contribution to EU climate neutrality and circular economy goals.
• Alignment with regulatory frameworks for sustainable packaging.

Scope

• Scale-up fibre-based packaging production to TRL 8 with improved properties.
• Deploy a complete value chain for sustainable packaging solutions.
• Demonstrate the market readiness of fibre-based packaging.
• Integrate bio-based add-ons without compromising recyclability.
• Design packaging for circularity, ensuring sustainable end-of-life.
• Address consumer perception and regulatory compliance.
• Apply the Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) framework.
• Assess regulatory status and safety of new packaging solutions.
• Avoid overlaps with ongoing fibre-based packaging projects.
• Explore synergies with other funding instruments.