Perspectives of biobased and decomposable plastics in agriculture and forestry: knowledge buildup, analysis & solutions regarding user views, product properties and competencies of companies
The aim of PerPlacsBio is to investigate the potential for reducing plastic use and long-term plastic persistence, while at the same time strengthening awareness and knowledge regarding the sustainable use of (bio-)plastics.
The project is conducted as a collaborative initiative. The nova-Institute provides the foundational knowledge for decision-making, for example on the appropriate application of bioplastics, while the University of Münster and the University of Applied Forest Sciences Rottenburg take the lead in conducting surveys and interviews in the agricultural and forestry sectors. In cooperation with practitioners, industry actors and other stakeholders, the feasibility of proposed measures and alternatives will be examined and discussed through participatory formats. The results of the project will be made publicly available in a user-friendly and clearly structured database.
The project is funded by the Fachagentur für Nachwachsende Rohstoffe (FNR) within the funding programme “Sustainable Renewable Resources,” under the priority area “Information and Societal Dialogue on Bioeconomy and Sustainability.”
Project lead: Dr'in Cornelia Steinhäuser und Dr'in Friederike Gabel
For further information: cornelia.steinhaeuser@uni-muenster.de
Project duration: Nov 2025 - Sept 2027
News
Workshop "Prospects for bio-based and biodegradable plastics in agriculture and forestry"
On 18 June 2026, we are hosting a workshop on the topic of "Prospects for bio-based and biodegradable plastics in agriculture and forestry" at Haus Düsse, Bad Sassendorf.
Under the motto ‘Knowledge building, analysis and solutions from the user’s perspective, product properties and corporate expertise’, the workshop aims to present users with practical solutions for a more conscious approach to plastics in everyday agricultural and forestry practice.
The workshop will begin by highlighting the issue of microplastics in the environment, before providing information and insights into plastic alternatives and their applications in agriculture and forestry. The second half of the workshop will provide an opportunity for lively discussion between participants, researchers and companies.
Details of the programme and registration can be found here.
Participation is free of charge and a certificate of continuing professional development can be issued for this event. To request this, please click on the option "Ich benötige ein Zertifikat/ Nachweis zur Fort- und Weiterbildung" on the registration page.
Online survey
From early February to the end of April, we ran an online survey on the use and reduction of (bio-)plastics. Participants from agriculture, forestry, vegetable and fruit production, and horticulture were invited. The aim of the survey is to gather experiences, assessments, and practical knowledge from the perspective of users and to incorporate these insights into further project work.
Visit to the Nordic Bioplastic Conference
© Plastindustrien On 16 April 2026, Pauline Ruiz gave a presentation at the Nordic Bioplastic Conference in Copenhagen. She presented the PerPlacsBio project, explained for which products is biodegradability the right fit and highlighted key applications used in agriculture and forestry with biodegradable alternatives.
At the FORST live Congress
© Luca Kiener, HFR HFR’s exhibition booth at FORST live in Offenburg from March 27 to 29, 2026, provided an opportunity for numerous discussions with industry professionals. True to the motto »knowledge meets practice«, the PerPlacsBio project was also presented on multiple occasions. Luca Kiener took this opportunity to promote the survey being conducted as part of the project.
Partners
Reports
Funding
The project is funded by the Fachagentur für Nachwachsende Rohstoffe (FNR) within the funding programme “Sustainable Renewable Resources”, under the priority area “Information and Societal Dialogue on Bioeconomy and Sustainability.”