
INL recognised as ‘Key Innovator’ for paper-based packaging innovation
January 22, 2025
The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has been recognised as a “Key Innovator” by the European Commission’s Innovation Radar for its transformative paper-based packaging innovation. Developed as part of the FlexFunction2Sustain project under the Horizon 2020 framework, this cutting-edge solution offers improved water and oxygen barriers for fresh food packaging.
The European Commission’s analysis categorised this innovation as “Business Ready”, signifying its readiness for market adoption. Moreover, the project addresses the needs of existing markets, emphasising its significant contribution to sustainable packaging solutions.
Revolutionising Packaging with Sustainability in Mind
In collaboration with project partner SONAE MC – SERVIÇOS PARTILHADOS, SA, INL’s innovation aims to revolutionise packaging for fresh foods by combining eco-friendly materials with enhanced performance capabilities. This breakthrough innovation helps industries reduce their environmental footprint while ensuring the quality and freshness of packaged food.
The efforts at INL were coordinated by Pablo Fuciños from the Pastrana Research Group, whose expertise in sustainable innovation and project management was crucial in aligning the development process with the project’s goals.
About FlexFunction2Sustain
The FlexFunction2Sustain project focused on enabling the adoption of sustainable materials and processes in flexible and printed electronics, packaging, and medical industries. The outcomes of the project demonstrate the potential of European collaboration to create technologies with far-reaching economic and environmental benefits.
A Legacy of Innovation
This recognition builds on INL’s previous accolades, including its 2024 acknowledgement for advancements in spintronics technology. With its innovative research in nanotechnology and sustainability, INL continues to bridge cutting-edge science with real-world applications.
To learn more about INL’s contributions as a Key Innovator, visit INL’s Innovation Radar Profile.