SOWISE+ (Solid Organic Waste Into Sustainable End-products) is a new European project funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). It aims to demonstrate an innovative approach to transforming urban waste into valuable resources for the circular bioeconomy. At its heart is a first-of-its-kind multipurpose biorefinery that will convert separately collected urban biowaste into bio-based polymers, while recovering high-quality cellulose from used absorbent hygiene products, such as nappies and incontinence products.

Building on technologies developed in previous European research projects, SOWISE+ will demonstrate these processes at industrially relevant scale in Treviso, Italy. The project targets the production of approximately 230 tonnes of PHBV, a bio-based and biodegradable polymer, and up to 700 tonnes of recovered cellulose annually. These materials will be used to develop and validate new bio-based products for applications including packaging, agriculture, construction and other industrial uses, creating new opportunities for waste valorisation and resource efficiency.

Beyond technological innovation, SOWISE+ aims to establish a replicable model of urban-industrial symbiosis, connecting municipal waste management systems with bio-based industries. The project will assess the safety, sustainability, economic viability and social acceptance of its solutions, while exploring their replication in other European regions. 

Coordinated by Contarina SpA, SOWISE+ brings together 25 organisations from nine European countries over five years, working towards more circular cities, sustainable industries and resource-efficient value chains.