As a core partner and co-organizer of the event, the Institute of Pulp and Paper (Inštitut za celulozo in papir - ICP) bridges the gap between scientific research and industrial application. Founded more than 80 years ago as a specialized research hub for industrial research in Ljubljana, Slovenia, ICP is today a leading applied research institute in Central and Southeastern Europe dedicated to natural fiber materials, bio-based packaging, and circular bioeconomy solutions. ICP serves as a key interface between scientific research, industrial innovation, and environmental policy, accelerating the transition from fossil-derived materials to renewable, recyclable alternatives. ICP operates contemporary testing laboratories and pilot plant infrastructure in the heart of Ljubljana that enables complete end-to-end material development, characterization, and industrial upscaling:
- Pilot-Scale Demonstration & Upscaling: ICP’s specialized infrastructural center includes pilot facilities for biomass delignification, fiber processing, custom papermaking, calendering, barrier coating, and specialized printing. This allows partners to test and validate new material concepts from laboratory scale to industrial prototype.
- Accredited Analytical Laboratories (ISO 17025): The institute conducts over 120 standardized testing protocols, offering advanced chemical, physical, biological, and graphic analyses for natural fibers, barrier materials, and finished packaging.
- Recyclability & Compostability Certification: ICP provides compliance assessments, recyclability and deinkability evaluations, food-contact safety testing, and biodegradability verification in accordance with European standardizations (e.g., SIST EN 13428).
ICP leverages its standing as project partner and event co-organizer to shape the conference agenda and drive key technical deliverables through collaboration with plastic pollution remediation and circular solutions with focus on:
- Bio-Based Material Innovation: Presenting research on biodegradable barrier coatings, plant-based fibers, and circular packaging solutions designed to replace persistent single-use plastics.
- Standardization & Life-Cycle Assessment: Sharing insights on eco-design protocols, material recyclability testing, and environmental impact assessments for new bio-composites.
The expert in bio-based solutions will be valorized through one of the Remedies 5.0 demo where fiber based foam solutions will be developed and testing with local municipalities as a substitution element for hard to recycle polymer foams.