MEARS CCC

PROJECT

MEARS CCC

Molding Eco-Friendly Furniture Elements from Recycled Cellulose and Waste (Cradle to Cradle Approach)
CONCEPT

The project is centered on the creation of eco-sustainable furniture elements using innovative cellulose molding techniques. Its uniqueness lies in the use of cellulose derived from plant waste and recycled paper, transforming waste materials into valuable resources.

This sustainable approach not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes the circular economy, paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future in the furniture sector.

CONTEXT

This research project aims to develop eco-sustainable furniture elements using molded cellulose. The partnership—composed of UNIBA, Stampa Sud, and Smart Lab Italia—brings together expertise in catalysis, industrial formulation, design, and printing.

The objective is to explore the potential of cellulose molding to create durable and environmentally friendly furniture products, guided by eco-design principles and circular economy models.

The project includes R&D, prototyping, and cost-benefit analysis, with Stampa Sud leading the evaluation of material properties and the optimization of recycling processes.

Beneficiari

OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS

Expected outcomes include:

  • New eco-innovative materials and furniture products: creation of durable and sustainable furniture elements using cellulose from plant waste and recycled paper.
  • Sustainable production processes: development and implementation of low-impact manufacturing processes focused on resource efficiency and waste reduction.
  • Circular economy models: application of circular economy principles in the furniture sector, promoting recycling, reuse, and end-of-life material recovery.
  • Eco-design tools: development of tools and methods for integrating environmental sustainability into the furniture design process.
  • Knowledge dissemination: sharing of project results through scientific publications, guides, workshops, and conferences.
  • Positive environmental impact: reduction of the environmental footprint of the furniture sector, supporting the shift towards a greener economy.
  • Competitive advantages for companies: acquisition of innovative skills and technologies, boosting competitiveness and sustainability in the market.
  • Benefits for society: creation of new sustainable products and services with positive impacts on both quality of life and the environment.

The project aims to demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of using waste-derived cellulose as a raw material in furniture design, opening new paths for a more sustainable and circular furniture industry.

KEY FIGURES

2

RESEARCHERS INVOLVED

2080

RESEARCH HOURS

1

NEW HIRES EXPECTED

12

PROJECT DURATION

3

NUMBER OF WORK PACKAGES (WPS)

2

STARTING TRL

5

FINAL TRL