Join this Research Theme (Deadline: 1 November 2026)
 
 

Research Theme #X

Forestry Residues: Chile-Sweden Strategic Biobased Material Autonomy

Keywords: Lignocellulosic Feedstock, Third-Generation Bioplastics, Material Autonomy, Forestry Biorefinery

 
 

Workshop Leaders (PIs)

 

Katherina Fernandez
Universidad de Concepción

Io Antonopoulou
Luleå University of Technology

 
 

Research Theme Summary

While first-generation bioplastics derived from food crops offered an initial pathway toward decarbonization, they have sparked critical debates regarding food security, water scarcity, and land-use competition. To address these systemic challenges, this presentation explores the transition toward Third-Generation Bioplastics: highperformance materials derived exclusively from non-food sources, specifically lignocellulosic waste and side-streams from the forestry sector. As global leaders in the forestry industry, Chile and Sweden share a unique strategic advantage in spearheading this material revolution. By leveraging advanced thermochemical and biochemical conversion processes, "low-value" residues—such as sawdust, bark, and lignin— can be transformed into sophisticated bio-based polymers, including PHAs and nanocellulose-reinforced composites. These materials are engineered to match the mechanical and barrier properties of fossil-based polyolefins while ensuring inherent biodegradability in diverse ecosystems. This session moves beyond laboratory-scale synthesis to discuss the industrial scalability and economic viability of integrated biorefineries. We analyze how this shift secures material autonomy for both nations, shielding local industries from the volatility of global petrochemical markets and significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing sector. By aligning the technological expertise of Sweden with the vast biomass potential of Chile, we propose a robust circular bridge between South America and Scandinavia. Ultimately, this collaboration aims to redefine forestry not just as a source of fiber, but as the foundational pillar for a sustainable, fossil-free future in the global plastic economy.

 
 

Desired Expertise

Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Bio-Economics, Design, Economics, Environmental Policy

 
 
 
 

About the ACCESS Forum & Research Themes (RTs)

  • The ACCESS Forum is an immersive, bi-national event held every 18 months that connects scholars across Chilean and Swedish member universities to address global societal challenges. Rather than functioning as a standard academic conference with passive presentations, an ACCESS workshop operates as an intensive, dedicated "working laboratory."

    Participants commit to a single Research Theme (RT)—a targeted, co-led scientific initiative aligned with the ACCESS Research Framework. Over four days of collaborative work sessions, interactive discussions, and co-design activities, participants remain with the same cohort to move research ideas from concept to action.

  • By joining our workshop cohort at the upcoming ACCESS Forum, you will:

    • Co-Develop Concrete Outcomes: Work directly toward joint academic publications, collaborative grant proposals (e.g., ANID, STINT, Horizon Europe), co-supervision of PhD candidates, etc.

    • Cross-Contextual Insights: Exchange datasets, methodologies, and local perspectives between Chilean and Swedish contexts.

    • Expand Your Network: Connect with senior researchers, Early Career Researchers (ECRs), and non-academic stakeholders across both research and innovation ecosystems.

  • To apply for a seat in this Research Theme workshop, please review the desired expertise above and complete the application form before the registration deadline.


    IMPORTANT: Applications from ACCESS member universities will be prioritize.

    Apply here by 1 November 2026: XXX