RELEASAFE

RELEASAFE addresses the urgent need for sustainable fertiliser delivery systems that reduce microplastic pollution and safeguard soil health. Conventional polymer-coated fertilisers often rely on persistent petrochemical plastics, which accumulate in soils and threaten ecosystems. Our project will design and demonstrate novel bio-based, biodegradable coatings and controlled-release systems using renewable raw materials such as lignin derivatives, dialdehyde starch, thermoplastic starch, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and wood. By integrating advanced formulation strategies, crosslinking and materials engineering, and enzyme-triggered degradation, RELEASAFE will deliver fertilisers with tailored nutrient-release profiles, ensuring high agronomic efficiency and biodegradation while preventing nutrient losses. The consortium covers the full value chain, from feedstock to market. CENER provides lignin derivatives, RODENBURG produces dialdehyde starch, and EVOENZYMES supplies enzymes for controlled degradation. AITIIP leads compounding and coating development, while LEITAT studies soil microbiomes and biodegradability. VAN IPEREN, a fertiliser producer, ensures industrial validation; LANDLAB tests agronomic performance; HOLOSS leads sustainability assessment; and AUSTRALO drives communication, dissemination, and exploitation. Together, EVO–Rodenburg–Van Iperen establish a core value chain from material innovation to fertiliser products. RELEASAFE will deliver fertiliser systems that i) align nutrient release with crop demand, ii) reduce nutrient losses and soil pollution, iii) fully biodegrade in soils, and iv) demonstrate cost-competitiveness. Beyond agriculture, outcomes will spill over into controlled-release applications in horticulture, agrochemicals, and wood protection. The project directly supports EU objectives on soil health, the circular bioeconomy, and sustainable farming.