PHA-based iNnovative agriculTurA1 Solutions to deliver bio-based ferTIlisers and plant protection produCts (PHAntastic)

Research Project, 2024 – 2028

Agrochemicals have doubled crop yields but have also caused negative impacts. The EU aims to reduce fertiliser losses and pesticide use by 50 % by 2030. Polymer-based delivery systems can help, but they generate plastic pollution. Agricultural plastics like mulch films and growth foams minimise agrochemical use but contribute to non-biodegradable plastic pollution. The EU-funded PHAntastic project aims to reduce agrochemical and plastic pollution by developing biodegradable polymers. Based on these polymers, it will create delivery systems (mulch films and growth foams) that contain active bioproducts and will test them on horticultural crops in Europe. The project aims to contribute to more sustainable and less impactful agriculture.