Open Call: Films and Coatings for Circular Packaging

The European Commission is funding innovative projects to develop high-performance bio-based films and coatings for sustainable packaging. The call focuses on improving barrier properties, circularity, and industrial compatibility of bio-based materials. €14 million is allocated for this topic under Horizon Europe, with global eligibility for applicants.

Overview

The European Commission invites proposals to advance sustainable packaging through innovative bio-based materials.

The initiative supports the development of bio-based films and coatings that can replace conventional fossil-based plastics while meeting high performance and sustainability standards.

It contributes to:

• Circular economy goals
• Sustainable product design
• Reduction of packaging waste
• Transition to bio-based materials

Key Objectives of the Call

1. Development of Bio-Based Packaging Materials

• Create bio-based films and coatings for packaging
• Support both food and non-food applications
• Ensure scalability and industrial relevance

2. Improved Technical Performance

Projects must demonstrate:

• Enhanced barrier properties (oxygen, moisture, grease, volatile compounds)
• Improved mechanical strength and durability
• Competitive performance vs fossil-based and existing bio-based materials

3. Addressing Material Limitations

A key challenge is the hydrophilic nature of bio-based materials.

Projects should:

• Improve resistance to moisture
• Enhance protective properties
• Ensure stability in real-world conditions

4. Circularity and Eco-Design

Projects must:

• Apply eco-design principles
• Reduce over-packaging
• Enable reuse, recycling, or composting
• Support sustainable end-of-life solutions

5. Prototype Development and Validation

• Develop advanced-stage technologies
• Demonstrate through prototype manufacturing
• Ensure compatibility with industrial packaging systems

6. Real-Use Testing and Performance Evaluation

Materials must be tested under real conditions, including:

• Transport and storage performance
• Mechanical strength
• Barrier effectiveness
• Surface and printability properties
• Environmental resistance
• Food contact safety (if applicable)

Funding Details

• Total programme budget: €170,760,699
• Budget for this topic: €14 million
• Programme: Horizon Europe

Funding supports collaborative research and innovation projects.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants:

• Any legal entity worldwide
• Universities and research institutions
• Companies (including SMEs and startups)
• NGOs and international organisations

Additional Conditions:

• Entities from non-associated third countries can apply
• Affiliated entities and partners may participate
• Must comply with Horizon Europe regulations

Application Requirements

Applicants must:

• Register in the Participant Register
• Obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC)
• Complete validation before grant agreement
• Ensure compliance with Horizon Europe rules

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Register your organisation in the EU Participant Register
2. Obtain your Participant Identification Code (PIC)
3. Build a consortium (recommended for large projects)
4. Design a project that:
   • Develops bio-based films/coatings
   • Improves performance and circularity
   • Includes real-world validation
5. Integrate eco-design and lifecycle considerations
6. Prepare a detailed proposal including:
   • Technical innovation
   • Testing and validation plan
   • Impact and scalability
7. Submit via the Horizon Europe portal

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed on:

• Scientific and technological excellence
• Innovation and performance improvement
• Contribution to circular economy goals
• Feasibility and scalability
• Quality of implementation and partnerships

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak barrier performance improvements
• Ignoring real-world testing requirements
• No clear circular end-of-life strategy
• Lack of industrial scalability
• Poor comparison with existing materials
• Incomplete PIC registration

Why This Funding Matters

This initiative supports the shift toward sustainable packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact.

It helps:

• Replace fossil-based plastics
• Improve recyclability and compostability
• Reduce packaging waste
• Advance circular economy practices
• Strengthen innovation in the packaging sector

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Focus on measurable performance improvements
• Include real-use testing and validation
• Demonstrate industrial applicability
• Address lifecycle sustainability clearly
• Build strong multi-sector partnerships

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main goal of this funding call?

To develop high-performance bio-based films and coatings for sustainable packaging applications.

2. How much funding is available?

€14 million is allocated for this topic under Horizon Europe.

3. Who can apply?

Any legal entity globally, including companies, universities, and research organisations.

4. Are both food and non-food packaging included?

Yes, the call supports both food and non-food packaging applications.

5. What are the key technical challenges?

Improving barrier properties, especially moisture resistance, due to the hydrophilic nature of bio-based materials.

6. Is collaboration required?

Yes, collaborative projects are generally expected.

7. What kind of projects are prioritized?

Projects that demonstrate scalable, high-performance, and circular packaging solutions.

Conclusion

This Horizon Europe call offers a major opportunity to innovate in sustainable packaging through bio-based films and coatings. By combining advanced material performance with circular design principles, the initiative supports the transition to environmentally responsible packaging systems and strengthens Europe’s leadership in sustainable materials innovation.