Hidden plant resources, new material possibilities

Europe has a wide range of plant resources that remain underexplored for high-value material use. Bio-LUSH focuses on extracting high-quality fibres from European biomass sources such as forest residues, hemp hurd, nettles and seagrass, with the aim of transforming them into functional bio-based materials.

Fibre innovation rooted in local biomass

The initiative is built around the idea that bio-based materials can become more sustainable when they use resources that are widely available, underutilised and locally relevant. Bio-LUSH develops innovative processes for biomass refining and fibre extraction, including fibrillation to nanoscale, so that plant-based feedstocks can be converted into high-quality fibres for manufacturing.

Bio-LUSH is not only extracting fibres; it is tailoring their properties for specific end uses. The initiative aims to demonstrate applications including edible food packaging, antibacterial textiles and 3D-printable bio-based filaments for impact-resistant car interior components.

The initiative connects fibre performance with circularity and sustainability. Its objectives include ensuring sustainable biomass supply, developing green and scalable processing methods, bridging gaps in biomass value chains, confirming circular design of biofibre-based products and quantifying the reduction in fossil resource reliance.

Why it matters for a stronger bioeconomy

By working with biomass sources such as forest residues, marine plants and weeds, Bio-LUSH links material innovation with wider socio-economic impact. The initiative presents its work as a contribution to revitalising marginalised areas, promoting circular biomass use and strengthening the European fibrous bioeconomy.

By developing fibres from forest residues, hemp hurd, nettles and seagrass, Bio-LUSH strengthens the case for a more local, circular and diversified bio-based materials economy. The initiative turns feedstock diversity into application potential, with demonstrations in packaging, textiles and reinforced composites.

Initiative facts

Programme: Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking under Horizon Europe.
Duration: 1 May 2023 – 30 April 2027.
Website: https://biolush.eu/