RETAIN

The RETAIN project addresses the environmental and technological challenge posed by PET and PVC composite tarpaulins, which are highly durable but difficult to recycle using current technologies. Every year, around 200 kilotonnes of tarpaulins enter the European market, and most end up in landfills or incinerated due to the lack of effective recycling solutions.

To transform this situation, RETAIN proposes a comprehensive approach that includes the advanced development of recycling technologies, such as mechanical recycling, physical recycling and selective dissolution. These technologies will be scaled up to TRL8 in three demonstration plants within the European Union.

The project will also implement circular practices throughout the value chain, including advanced collection, monitoring, sorting, repair, reuse, recycling and conversion systems for both post-production and end-of-life tarpaulins. In addition, RETAIN will develop an efficient decision-making mechanism to optimise processes and life cycles, such as the ‘RETAIN gate control’ procedure, which will determine the best management for each tarpaulin according to its condition and composition. Another key component is the creation of a digital product passport (DPP) for tarpaulins, which will ensure traceability, facilitate quality certification and validation, enable the quantification of environmental, social and economic impacts, and connect the project with other recycling initiatives in Europe and beyond. Finally, the project will incorporate training activities, contribute to the development of relevant standards, and promote cooperation with other circular economy initiatives.