Each year, conventional agricultural films contribute significant quantities of microplastics to farmland. A new European research initiative focused on berry cultivation is working to address this challenge by creating a biodegradable film that decomposes naturally after use. The material will also feature printed sensors, giving berry growers valuable information about crop conditions. Danish Technological Institute (DTI) is contributing its expertise in printed electronics and developing environmentally responsible inks that can be used to integrate sensors directly into the film.
Turning an agricultural waste challenge into a biodegradable solution
Agricultural films play an important role in European berry production. They protect plants and help establish a suitable growing environment. However, traditional plastic films remain in the soil after use. When growers plough their fields following harvest, fragments of the material become mixed into the ground, intensifying concerns about agricultural microplastic pollution.
The ECOSYSTEM project is taking a circular approach to this issue. It will convert by-products from berry production into polymers that can serve as raw materials for biodegradable agricultural film. The finished film must remain functional throughout a complete growing season before breaking down rapidly and naturally in the soil.
“An intelligent film that provides berry producers with information about soil moisture and temperature, while also degrading naturally, could offer significant benefits. Earlier studies have shown that mulch films can change the temperature and moisture levels beneath them, influencing plant development and soil biology. As a result, the environment under the film is an important area for sensing and monitoring,” says Sol Gutiérrez Alvarez, a printed electronics specialist at Danish Technological Institute.
The project is designed to deliver several advantages for modern agriculture. By improving access to real-time growing data, the solution could support better crop management and higher yields. It may also lower waste-handling expenses for agricultural businesses while helping reduce microplastic accumulation in soil. These objectives align with wider food and beverage industry trends, including food manufacturing trends that emphasize resource efficiency and responsible production.
Printed sensors supported by sustainable ink technology
DTI will design and evaluate sensors that can be printed directly onto the biodegradable film. A central part of this work involves producing inks that combine reliable electrical performance with a lower environmental impact. The institute will test copper-based ink developed through earlier research. Compared with silver-based alternatives, the copper formulation has a lower carbon footprint.
The key technical challenge within ECOSYSTEM will be ensuring that the ink can safely decompose alongside the film once its agricultural function is complete. This work reflects broader progress in food processing technology and food and drink industry innovation, where digital monitoring and sustainable materials are increasingly being combined.
“Printed electronics require only very small quantities of conductive materials, helping to limit the overall material footprint. The consortium will also examine the environmental and safety performance of the proposed solutions, including through life-cycle assessments,” explains Sol Gutiérrez Alvarez.
As food distribution trends, food and drink consumer trends, and food and drink sustainability expectations continue to evolve, innovations such as this could support more transparent and resource-efficient supply chains. The project may also contribute to future developments in food and drink packaging, food and drink marketing, and compliance with changing food and drink regulations by demonstrating how smart, biodegradable materials can support responsible production.
Learn more: https://www.ecosystem-he.eu/