On December 2, 2025, the focus group of the ProPla – Protein from Plastics project was held online, an initiative funded by Fondazione Cariplo and coordinated by Prof. Loredano Pollegioni (University of Insubria). The meeting involved about 40 participants from companies, researchers, and trade associations, with the aim of evaluating industrial applications, market prospects, and enhancement strategies consistent with sustainability criteria.
The discussion, led by Professors Elena Maggi and Giulia Pesaro, highlighted a key point: to generate real impact, it is necessary to transfer the process from the laboratory to an industrial scale, while simultaneously defining development paths and partnerships in line with circular economy objectives.
A concrete challenge: microplastics and their impact on ecosystems
ProPla addresses one of the most urgent environmental issues: the management of microplastics and the reduction of their impact on ecosystems. The project adopts a multidisciplinary approach that integrates protein engineering, systems biology, and entomology, with the goal of converting PET from wastewater and dryer filters into amino acids and proteins.
Results and findings from the project
Among the results already achieved, ProPla reported the synthesis of L- and D-alanine and pyruvate, through the use of insect larvae and engineered bacterial strains.
From the perspective of environmental evidence and collection, it also emerged that:
- Microplastics are not significantly present in the waters of Lake Varese;
- instead, they tend to concentrate in dryer filters;
- currently available washing machine filters on the market show ample room for improvement, both in terms of performance and dissemination.
LATI’s contribution to the Advisory Board
Within the Advisory Board, LATI provided a significant contribution in terms of expertise and strategic vision, supporting the dialogue between research and industry to steer the project towards concrete and applicable solutions.
“I am very pleased that LATI has been part of this project because industry and universities must work side by side to solve the challenges that the present poses in the field of circular economy.”
Cristiano Citterio, Product Regulatory Affairs Manager at LATI
Next steps: in-person event in 2026
The project has already generated media feedback and will continue with an in-person event at the beginning of 2026, dedicated to presenting the overall results and future collaboration opportunities.
For more information: https://www.theproteinfactory2.it/propla
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