System integration and design

Welcome to the CPNL program line focused on exploring the impact of, partially and maximally, circular plastic chains in the Netherlands!

The goal is to identify the positive and negative impacts within key societal themes such as economy, technology, societal aspects, environment and health to be identified. We strive not only to identify these impacts, but also to develop appropriate methods to measure and share this crucial information. Transparency and effective communication are essential to guide decision-making and engage stakeholders, which can also accelerate the materials and process technology developments of other CPNL program lines.

System Integration

At "Systems Integration," CPNL is working to develop a national network for circular plastics, consisting of a virtual systems integration knowledge center and community. Here, information exchange can be facilitated to make plastics more reusable and sustainable, such as:

  • upcoming policies and legislation,
  • overview of product material flows,
  • sorting techniques,
  • recyclate quality in the Netherlands.

This platform will allow different users to share and obtain information.

Applicable models

Research was conducted in 2023 to determine the knowledge needs of various organizations and companies on circularity in plastic chains. This research 'TNO 2024 R11499 Transition to a circular plastics economy in 2050 - Information needs inventory and transition requirements', invested by RVO at TNO is completed in 2024. For more information, check out our updates or contact the systems integration program manager, Carlijn Röell

Design

Many requirements must be considered during the design process, including appearance, functionality, durability during production, transportation and use. The final design is often a compromise and not always sustainable. In the CPNL program line "design," we strive for solutions that contribute to circularity in decision-making for plastic production by improving the ease of collection, sorting and recycling, with attention to hidden aspects such as additives, inks, sizes and color use. For the design component, work is currently underway to develop an appropriate scheme for further research. More information will follow via the CPNL newsletter or contact the program manager for Design, Roland ten Klooster.

Microplastics

This program line includes research on mitigation options to prevent the formation of microplastics throughout the value chain. This includes research on the formation, dispersion and exposure to microplastics. More research is needed to determine the impact that different steps in the recycling process have on the release of microplastics. The knowledge gained from the research aims to support organizations in preventing losses. View here the grant opportunities for a research project on the impact of microplastics as part of the CPNL grant program 2025.

Open Calls 2024/2025

The Circular Plastics NL grant scheme for 2025 with 4 generic research projects and 8 showcases is put out for CPNL through Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO) for innovative projects. Read more about the topics here.

Participation

Do you want to participate in realizing a circular future for plastics and contribute to our society and the environment? On April 18, 2024, CPNL hosted a workshop focused on systems integration and design. Check out the report here and the CPNL calendar for upcoming events.