On 7 July, the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking marked World Bioproduct Day by highlighting innovative bio-based products developed through CBE JU-funded projects across Europe.
The initiative showcased how bio-based solutions made from agricultural and forestry side-streams, food-processing residues, microalgae, hemp, botanical extracts and other renewable resources are being transformed into new products for packaging, agriculture, construction, food, cosmetics, home care and many other applications.
ELLIPSE was among the projects featured by CBE JU for its contribution to the development of controlled-release fertilisers from industrial side-streams.
Through our work, we developed controlled-release fertiliser granules coated with bio-based and biodegradable polyesters and polymers produced from paper and pulp industry waste. These innovative coatings are designed to release nutrients gradually, helping to reduce nutrient losses and improve nutrient-use efficiency in agriculture.
At the same time, the ELLIPSE solution addresses one of the key limitations of conventional controlled-release fertilisers: the risk of microplastic pollution caused by fossil-based and non-biodegradable coatings. By developing coatings intended to meet EU soil-biodegradability requirements, ELLIPSE contributes to safer, more sustainable fertilisation practices.
This achievement reflects the broader mission of the project: to create higher-value applications for industrial by-products, reduce reliance on fossil resources and support the transition towards circular bio-based value chains.
CBE JU’s World Bioproduct Day campaign also highlighted the growing impact of the European bio-based sector. To date, CBE JU has funded 243 projects and supported the development of 23 first-of-their-kind biorefineries across Europe, helping promising bio-based innovations move from research and demonstration towards industrial deployment. Current project reporting points to 141 new bio-based products delivered under BBI JU and 97 circular bio-based products being developed through CBE JU-funded projects.
Being featured in this campaign is an important recognition of our work and of the potential of circular bio-based innovation to deliver more sustainable, high-performing solutions for agriculture and industry.
