Growing Kent & Medway

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Sustainable Packaging, Biorefining, and Biomass 2022

Academic Sandpit

On the 8th of November 2022, the University of Kent hosted a Growing Kent & Medway academic sandpit focusing on Sustainable Packaging, Biorefining and Biomass. The event welcomed academic researchers from the University of Greenwich, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the University of Kent.

The sandpit was opened with an introduction to the special focus area being developed under the Growing Kent & Medway brand, followed by an overview of the current waste processing landscape in Kent for the food and drink sector. This included waste disposal by the agriculture and horticulture sectors.

The sandpit then opened for group discussion and exercises. Attendees listed the main drivers and benefits to enable a move to a future circular system, alongside the restrictions and limitations that will inhibit progress.

Attendees then explored potential projects or research questions to exploit the region’s advantages or overcome the challenges. The suggestions were made under four key headings: Economics, Chemical and material sciences, Plant and soil biology, and Supply chain logistics.

As the meeting ended researchers discussed how they can support the implementation of a biorefining sector in Kent. In turn, supporting the production of biofuels, high value compounds, and utilising and upcycling low value material e.g., packaging materials, feedstocks for growing higher value feedstocks on, biofertilisers.

This sandpit was the first in a series of research engagement events focusing on Sustainable Packaging, Biorefining and Biomass. If you are interested in attending future events, please email growingbiotech@kent.ac.uk.