ReCreateBiobased

ReCreateBiobased is an Interreg Central Baltic project that develops replicable circular economy solutions for underutilised local biomass, with common reed (Phragmites australis) as the pilot resource. Reed grows abundantly along Central Baltic shorelines but, if left unharvested, accumulates as unmanaged biowaste, contributing to eutrophication and biodiversity loss while representing a missed opportunity for sustainable material use.

Project goals: Creating scalable, cross-border circular value chains that turn underutilised reed biomass into bio-based composites, packaging, and panels, while establishing reverse logistics and recycling systems that keep these materials in circulation.

Project activities:

• Mapping reed and biomass availability, harvesting practices, and supply chains across partner countries,
• Co-developing bio-based prototypes (composites, packaging, panels) with SMEs,
• Piloting reverse logistics and collection hubs for used bio-based products,
• Testing recycling methods (mechanical reprocessing, extrusion) on biocomposites,
• Delivering training, study visits, and cross-border workshops for SMEs and municipalities.

University of Latvia's role: The University of Latvia leads the work on sourcing and valorising reed biomass, contributes to the development of new biocomposites, and carries out the project's Life Cycle Assessment to demonstrate the environmental benefits of replacing virgin raw materials with local biomass.