Coffeefrom: processing coffee grounds into a durable and resistant alternative to single-use plastic
Coffeefrom is an innovative project which builds on knowledge acquired during the first project run by Il Giardinone Cooperativa Sociale which used spent coffee grounds to grow mushrooms.
Coffeefrom has built a supply chain based on the recovery and processing of industrial coffee grounds. They are blended with biopolymers to create a bio-based thermoplastic material produced entirely in Italy: Coffeefrom. It is a durable and resistant alternative to single-use plastic, produced in collaboration with Milan polytechnical university and companies in the supply chain.
The project has three main categories of granules which can be used in injection moulding:
- Coffeefrom® Bio: 100% biodegradable, made of coffee grounds and polylactic acid, a biopolymer. It is also suitable for 3D printing and has applications in the packaging, automotive and tablewear industries.
- Coffeefrom® Eco: 100% recycled, made of recycled low-density polyethylene and coffee grounds. It is light and flexible.
- Coffeefrom® Strong: made of high-density polyethylene and coffee grounds. It is rigid and suitable for applications requiring significant mechanical properties.
They also produce cups, pens and holders from these materials.
Coffeefrom has a positive social impact by integrating fragile and disadvantaged people, as well as working closely with other social enterprises.
- The project processes up to 200 tons of coffee grounds a year, reducing the substantial management and environmental costs associated with the food industry.
- Skills promotion: the businesses and individuals involved acquire new skills by integrating an organic waste into production processes
- Social impact: disadvantaged individuals are involved in project-related activities and other local social enterprises are brought into supply processes
- Coffeefrom is innovative in terms of both its process and business model: it provides a response to four of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals: sustainable consumption and production; decent work and economic growth; industry, innovation and infrastructure; and partnerships for the goals.