BioCordelia officially kicks off: developing bio-based alternatives for sustainable agriculture

In June 2026, theBioCordelia project officially launched with a kick-off meeting in Espoo,Finland, hosted by project coordinator VTT. Bringing together partners from sixEuropean countries, the meeting marked the beginning of a 42-monthcollaboration dedicated to developing innovative bio-based solutions foragriculture.

Addressing the challenge of conventionalcontrolled-release fertilisers

Controlled-releasefertilisers (CRFs) are increasingly used to improve nutrient use efficiency,reduce nutrient leaching and support more sustainable farming practices.However, most commercial CRFs rely on polymer coatings made fromnon-biodegradable materials, contributing to microplastics pollution in soils.

Developing the next generation of bio-baseddelivery systems

BioCordelia aims toaddress this challenge by designing, developing and validating innovativelignocellulose-based biodegradable controlled-release delivery systems foragricultural inputs, using underutilised agricultural and forest side streamsas feedstock.

By bringing togetherexpertise from research, industry, agriculture and innovation support, theproject will develop bio-based and biodegradable alternatives that contributeto reducing microplastics pollution, promoting soil health and supporting moresustainable agricultural practices.