LIFE Comp0live project aims to valorise this by-product to convert it into a raw material on the market and also reduce CO2 emissions caused by practices such as the burning of prunings, which is still carried out today.

One of the most significant advances presented is that, when this olive pruning fibre, suitably treated, is added to a polymer as a reinforcement, a bioplastic material is created with significantly improved properties.

In addition, an innovative appearance and texture is achieved, even when recycled plastics are used. The researchers have so far made significant progress in the development of the material and are currently working on manufacturing scale-up, where they have good prospects of success.

General objectives

Revalorisation of olive pruning waste collected into fiber for new biocomposites.
Reduction of fossil-based virgin plastic due to the amount of olive natural fiber incorporated to the matrix and the use of recycled PP.
CO2 emissions reduction.
Creation of 3 new businesses models related to the waste management within the new value chain of olive sector: fibers for automotive sector, outdoor furniture and home furniture.
Empower sensitivity and awareness of the primary sector by boosting an economically and eco-friendly managing of olive waste.

Quantified outputs

Revaluation of the olive pruning (at least, 50%), with a lack of innovative applications. This fact confers a high added-value to this by-product.
Creation of a green, eco-friendly and sustainable composite which contains up to 35% of olive fiber and based on either biopolymer PLA or recyclable PP.
The diminution in the amount of fossil-based plastic interior automotive parts and furniture sectors: reduction of plastic consumption in automotive and furniture, at least 10-30%.
Development of at least 8 different bio composites at lab scale, at least 4 of them will be specifically scaled up, following the requirements in each application sector (automotive and furnishings).
Manufacturing of at least 3 real prototyping demonstrators and their industrial validation, 1 for automotive industry, 1 for home furniture and 2 for urban furniture.
Performance of potential market products (green composites).