Project Portugal 2030

Summary

The PHAME project aims to investigate the sustainable production and ecological impact of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) as biodegradable mulch films for agricultural practices, with a focus on their efficacy as substitutes for petroleum-based plastics in enhancing crop cultivation while minimizing environmental pollution. Specific Goals: 1. Establishment and Optimization of PHA Mulch Film Production: Develop efficient and cost-effective methods for producing PHA mulch films through microbial fermentation. Emphasis will be placed on optimizing parameters such as substrate selection, microbial strains, and film properties to enhance durability and biodegradability in agricultural settings. This objective address important challenges by tackling the need for sustainable alternatives to plastic mulch films and pushes beyond the state of the art by integrating novel concepts in microbial fermentation for biopolymer production. 2. Evaluation of Ecological Impact Using a Multiscale Biodiversity Approach: Assess the ecological impact of PHA mulch films on biodiversity across the strawberries agricultural ecosystem by using TMEs. This includes soil microbial communities (microbiome), soil-dwelling organisms (mesofauna), and above-ground fauna (macrofauna). The project will utilize TMEs surveys, molecular techniques, and ecological modeling to evaluate the effects of PHA mulch films on ecosystem health. By adopting a multiscale approach, the project addresses the complexity of agricultural ecosystems and advances beyond current practices in understanding the environmental implications of biodegradable mulch films. 3. In Silico and In Situ Evaluation of PHA-Biodegrading Enzymes in Agricultural Environments: Employ computational predictions and field experiments to investigate the presence and activity of PHA-degrading enzymes within agricultural soils. This objective aims to elucidate the role of indigenous microbial communities in PHA degradation and its potential effects on soil health and nutrient cycling. By integrating computational modeling with in situ experiments, the project introduces novel approaches to studying microbial biodegradation processes in agricultural environments, contributing to the advancement of interdisciplinary research in biotechnology and environmental science. 4. Assess the Techno-Economic Impact of PHA Mulch Films in Agriculture: Conduct a comprehensive techno-economic analysis to evaluate the feasibility and economic viability of utilizing PHA mulch films in agriculture. This includes assessing production costs, crop productivity, weed suppression, soil health benefits, and long-term environmental sustainability. By addressing both technical and economic aspects, this objective provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of adopting PHA mulch films in agricultural systems, contributing to evidence-based decision-making in sustainable agriculture practices. The PHAME project aligns with regional, national, and global strategies for sustainable development and innovation as mentioned above and with more detail in specific sections. Through the accomplishment of these specific goals, the PHAME project aims to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating PHA mulch films into agricultural systems, ultimately promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on fossil-based plastics.