BioCordelia · Bio-based and Biodegradable Controlled Release Delivery Systems for Agricultural Inputs

The aim of BIOCORDELIA is to design, develop and validate innovative, lignocellulose-based biodegradable, controlled release delivery systems for agricultural inputs. Controlled-release fertilisers (CRFs) can enhance nutrient use efficiency, reduce leaching losses, and support sustainable farming practices, however, most commercial CRFs rely on polymer coatings made from non-biodegradable materials. BIOCORDELIA will address these challenges by utilising the lignocellulosic biomass derived from underutilized side streams of European agricultural and forest industries to develop fully bio-based and biodegradable controlled release delivery systems. These systems will ensure agronomic efficiency, environmental safety and biodegradability in soil environments. The lignocellulosic materials will be optimized to achieve two different controlled release delivery systems, namely bio-matrix and bio-coating, with tailored release durations of up to 2 and 8 months, respectively. Biodegradability of the materials and their efficacy for nutrient release will be evaluated in detail, with a focus on the factors affecting the biodegradation process and overall soil health, SSbD principles will be employed throughout the project. Multi-actor approach will be implemented to ensure active stakeholder involvement and effective communication, dissemination and exploitation of results. BIOCORDELIA is in alignment with the EU strategies on bioeconomy, circular economy, soil health and sustainable agriculture, while supporting the EU fertilising products regulation and contributing to the creation of new circular bio-based value chains. This will shift the paradigm from fossil-based, non-biodegradable plastics to bio-based and biodegradable alternatives, which will significantly contribute to climate change mitigation as well as reduction of microplastics and uncontrolled littering.