Advancing safe and sustainable bio-based polymers
ViSS joins European partners at Polymers 2026 to explore how innovation, safety, and circularity can shape the next generation of bio-based materials
ViSS contributed to the Workshop on Safe and Sustainable Bio-Based Polymers, held on 9 April in Lisbon as part of the Polymers 2026 International Conference. Organised together with ANIPH and PHAntastic, the workshop brought together European research projects, industry representatives, and policy experts to discuss how bio-based and biodegradable plastics can support the transition towards a more circular and sustainable economy.
Discussions focused on the need to move beyond material innovation alone. Participants highlighted that the successful uptake of bio-based polymers depends on a full value-chain perspective, from raw material sourcing and polymer design to processing, use, end-of-life options, and environmental impact.
A key message from the workshop was the importance of applying Safe and Sustainable by Design principles from the earliest stages of development. This approach can help ensure that new materials are not only technically viable, but also safe, circular, and aligned with emerging European policy and assessment frameworks.
The conference proceedings collect the main insights from the workshop, together with the presentations shared by participating projects and experts. They offer a useful overview of current research directions, practical challenges, and opportunities for collaboration in the field of safe and sustainable bio-based polymers.
Read the full conference proceedings to discover the key outcomes from the workshop.