So much waste ... what could we do with it, beyond producing energy and compost? EU-funded researchers are looking into ways to turn biowaste generated in our cities - notably by homes, restaurants and shops - into a number of bio-based products by means of integrated biorefineries.
An EU-funded project has developed a new, eco-efficient waste treatment process for nickel plating that cuts industry costs and contributes to the resource conservation objectives of the circular economy. In addition to clear environmental benefits, it also gives a sharper competitive edge to European SMEs.
EU-funded researchers have developed new marine sensors to meet the growing need for real-time data on the state of our oceans. Such timely and accurate information will help scientists and policymakers react quickly to ecological threats and ensure that environmental policies are properly implemented.
Dairy foods are a healthy part of many people's diets. Now milk powder and mozzarella-type cheese could become healthier for the environment as well. EU-funded researchers are applying new techniques to production lines to save energy and water, while finding uses for processing waste. Results to date include a new pasteurisation technique and microwave heating process.
A new software platform by an EU-funded project will help Europe's construction sector to develop new sustainable and cost-effective supply chains that reduce waste, make use of high quality recycled products and create new market opportunities.
An EU industry-funded project uses marginal land and hardy native plants to produce valuable chemicals for the possible manufacture of a range of products including cosmetics and bioplastics. The goal is to harness the potential of local areas and build a sustainable, profitable and job-creating value chain.
A team of EU-funded researchers demonstrated that tanks of hydrogen vehicles can be manufactured at much lower costs. Since the end of the project they are now working on commercialising and improving the newly developed materials and techniques.
Remember when there were no satellites? Before your time, maybe, as the first was launched in 1957. Today, we would be lost without them - quite literally so, but satnavs are only one of many services these orbital outriders underpin. EU-funded research is helping to secure Europe's access to the carbon fibre materials needed to build them.
Seals that prevent leaks between moving machine parts could soon last longer and be more energy-efficient. An EU-funded project's techniques mould rubber and plastic dynamic seals with surface texture, making the SMEs manufacturing them more competitive.
High-performance biocomposites derived from wheat straw and recycled paper? EU-funded researchers have developed new materials and components based on substances isolated from these renewable residues. They have also found a way to extract silica from the straw, offering a greener alternative to current production methods for this compound.
