InPlasTwin is Horizon Europe project runs from October 2024 to September 2027, comprasing 6 partners from 6 countries. It is committed to advance the understanding of micro- and nanoplastic environmental and food-related impacts with a particular focus on strawberries in agriculture.
Twinned in Knowledge Share on Plastic Pollution in Agriculture
The InPlasTwin project aims to strengthen the research capacity of the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) and the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), through international collaboration and knowledge sharing with leading European institutions (Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Institute of Marine Research (IMR), The Technical University of Denmark (DTU)) for scientific innovation and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate the negative consequences of plastic pollution.
Innovative Research in Agriculture: A Focus on Strawberries
Biodegradable Mulching Films
- Study the breakdown of biodegradable mulching films into micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) through photo-oxidation and mechanical abrasion.
- Analyze the environmental impact of MNPs released from mulching films in strawberry cultivation.
- Simulate real-world farming conditions to assess MNP uptake by crops, and their effects on yield, fruit quality, and safety.
Controlled MNP Generation and Analysis
- Develop protocols for generation and extraction of MNPs under controlled conditions.
- Study the uptake and potential impact of MNPs on environmental and plant (strawberry) samples, using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry techniques.
Investigating Toxic Plastic Additives
- Explore the release of toxic plastic additives like plasticizers and stabilizers into the environment.
- Assess the potential migration of these additives into edible plant parts, addressing food safety and human health concerns.
The InPlasTwin Specific Objective Approach to Plastic Pollution in Agriculture
Enhancing long-term and sustainable networking activities of the JSI and AUA with project partner institutions (FSH, VITO, DTU, IMR) through knowledge transfer and exchange of best practices in the investigation of MNPs in the environment and food
Strengthening the scientific and innovation capacity of JSI and AUA in investigating MNPs in the environment and food
Strengthening the research profile of the JSI and AUA and their staff, including increasing management and administrative skills of the JSI and diversity inclusion and ethic practices at JSI, AUA, and FSH
Enlarging the social impact of research and raising awareness of different target groups on the environmental and food impacts of MNPs