CurCol

The CURCOL project focused on developing sustainable, bio-based colourants for packaging by using curcumin derived from the Curcuma plant. It established a full supply chain—from cultivation to prototype production—across partners in Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. Researchers successfully incorporated these biodegradable colourants into various biopolymers (such as PLA, PHB, and starch-based materials) using standard industrial processes, producing items like shopping bags and test materials.

The colourants showed good UV stability, recyclability, and performance. The project addresses the environmental issues of fossil-based, non-biodegradable, and potentially toxic synthetic dyes by offering eco-friendly alternatives. Through prototype development and life cycle analysis, it aims to demonstrate technical and commercial viability, supporting the transition to a circular, resource-efficient economy and encouraging wider industry adoption.