TwInn4MicroUp at the VALOPLAST scientific meeting

December 21, 2025

The TwInn4MicroUp project participated in the scientific workshop organized within the framework of the ELIDEK-funded project VALOPLAST, held on Friday, 19 December 2025, at the University of Patras.

The event focused on the fate and impact of bioplastics in anaerobic digestion and composting processes, addressing critical challenges related to sustainable waste management, microplastics in the environment, and innovative biological treatment technologies.

TwInn4MicroUp was represented by Prof. Evangelos Topakas (NTUA), who delivered a presentation entitled “Microbial Upcycling of Plastic Waste: An Introduction of the TwInn4MicroUp Project.” The talk introduced the project’s vision and key research directions, highlighting the use of microbial and enzymatic tools to transform plastic waste into valuable resources, in line with circular economy principles.

The presentation sparked strong interest among participants, as it complemented several talks focusing on anaerobic and aerobic biodegradation of bioplastics, enzyme engineering, and plastic-degrading microorganisms. This meeting provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with researchers from the University of Patras working on bioplastics, environmental microplastics, and sustainable waste treatment technologies.

Participation in the VALOPLAST scientific meeting enhanced the visibility of TwInn4MicroUp and reinforced its role within the broader research community addressing plastic pollution and sustainable materials management. The event also opened avenues for future scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange between TwInn4MicroUp partners and related national research initiatives.