The organisation of the European Scientific Conference titled “Biodegradation of Plastics: the next chapter in upcycling through enzymatic biocatalysis” as well as of the Meeting of the European Partners of the upPE-T H2020 project was undertaken by Sympraxis on behalf of the Municipality of Nea Smyrni.  About 80 people participated in the Conference, which was realised on 16 & 17 October 2024 and was held at the Municipal Council Hall of the Municipality of Nea Smyrni. The topics discussed included the issue of plastic food packaging in the EU and the current situation with the various types of plastic, the upPE-T H2020 project, its innovations, the dissemination of the project results, the expected results, the topic “Beyond the known Rs (Reduce – Reuse – Recycle): The role of research in industrial innovation”, as well as innovative practices to an integrated waste management – ​​national policy”. There was also a round table discussion on the path to a zero waste society and what the next steps will be. At the same time, at the Nea Smyrni Square, in the Open Day context, more than 400 people, citizens and visitors of the Municipality, were informed about the actions of the upPE-T H2020 project and the reuse of plastic products. Sympraxis, on behalf of the Municipality, undertook the technical organisation of the events, interpretation services, catering, photo shooting/video recording and video production, promotion and communication actions, as well as the full coordination of all the events’ actions.

Watch the Conference video HERE.