The RELIANCE project was prominently presented at the International Symposium on Biopolymers (ISBP) 2024, held this year in Malaysia. With its theme, “Towards Safe and Sustainable Biopolymers for our Future,” ISBP 2024 brought together 299 participants from 34 countries, all working towards advancing the science and applications of biopolymers. The conference was organized by University Sains Malaysia and featured an impressive array of topics, to include the synthesis and application of novel biopolymers, sustainable production pathways and the biodegradability of bio-based plastics.

RELIANCE’s contributions to biopolymer research were highlighted by Professor Roger Marti, a key member of the project’s consortium along with HEIA-FR team, in a keynote lecture on “Keratin from Chicken Feathers as Functional Additive.” His presentation, focused on the innovative use of keratin as an additive in bioplastics, sparked considerable interest from a big audience of attendees. It constituted a valuable contribution to the ISBP’s main emphasis on polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a special class of naturally occurring polyester with unique biodegradable properties, such as complete and fast degradation in sea water and soil, and blended perfectly with the conference’s special sessions on other bio-based natural polymers, such as silk protein, polyamides and polyester, based on bio-based monomers. In a unique way, the ISBP 2024 illustrated the growing intersection between two fascinating biopolymers, keratin & PHA, revealing their promising potential for sustainable industrial applications. The engaging discussions continued in the coffee breaks, with making new contacts, opening avenues for new partnerships and further research collaborations within the community.

Professor Marti’s active role extended beyond his presentation; as a member of the ISBP Scientific Committee, he also served on the poster evaluation board, sharing insights and engaging with young scientists. “It was inspiring to witness”, he shares, “their motivation to bring sustainable chemistry to applications, throughout the conference, which featured 83 poster presentations and 86 oral presentations.”

ISBP 2024 was a landmark event showcasing the field’s long-standing contributions to sustainable science. The next iteration is set to take place at the University College Dublin, Ireland, where the future of biopolymer research and innovation will continue to be shaped.