Cypriot researchers from AKTI Project and Research Centre and the environmental consulting and research firm ISOTECH Ltd have visited Croatia, Chania, Montenegro, Bulgaria, and Malta as part of the research project "SEALIVE" to conduct knowledge transfer events on bioplastics.

According to an announcement by AKTI, the events included an exhibition of samples of the eight bioplastic products developed by SEALIVE. They were complemented by participatory workshops with social partners to record challenges in promoting bioplastic products and identify implementable solutions. These events were carried out by the Cypriot researchers in collaboration with local NGOs.

The Cypriot researchers embarked on an intensive journey starting on September 26, 2023, from Dubrovnik, Croatia. They continued to Kumbor, Montenegro on September 28, 2023, and Chania, Crete on October 2, 2023. Then, they visited Varna, Bulgaria on November 3, 2023, and concluded in Malta on January 31, 2024.

In collaboration with local organizations, it was added in the announcement, over 600 social partners were informed through the exhibition of the 8 bioplastic product samples. Furthermore, five decision-making workshops were held with the participation of a total of 304 selected social partners from sectors such as local and regional leadership, fishing, aquaculture, plastic producers, academics, researchers, maritime sector representatives, technical advisors, and protected area managers.

The announcement continues, addressing the common concern among social partners regarding the potential increased cost and need for greater durability of bioplastic products compared to conventional ones. “It is also deemed necessary to conduct pilot tests for the new materials, as well as provide complete information to users, such as farmers and fishermen, due to the general lack of knowledge surrounding these issues,” it is noted.

The opinions and recommendations of the 304 social partners will be analyzed by the scientific team of ISOTECH Ltd and will become a policy tool accompanying the industrial-scale production of these materials and products.

Dr. Xenia I. Loizidou, who had the scientific responsibility for the events, stated, “Plastic pollution is one of the greatest risks to our planet,” adding that it is imperative “to supply the market with alternative products not reliant on fossil fuels.” She also expressed satisfaction with the massive participation in the events across these five countries, as it shows the great market and societal interest in more environmentally friendly materials.

Additionally, Dr. Loizidou notes that they are looking forward to the rapid green transition of the plastics industry, as plastic pollution has reached critical levels and the resilience of our planet is diminishing.

“We are proud that as Cypriot scientists we are transferring knowledge and technology to promote sustainability on the international stage,” she concluded.