“Seaweed-based Eco-packaging Acceptance and single-plastic Waste-reduction Opportunities Through Holistic Research for a Sustainable Society” (SEAWORTHY)

This one-year interdisciplinary seed project explores the development and social acceptance of seaweed-based packaging materials as a sustainable alternative to single-use conventional plastic.

By leveraging northern Sweden's innovation capacity and aligning with the SUN program's goals, the project addresses the dual challenge of ecological impact and consumer perception. In collaboration between material science and product innovation research groups at Luleå University of Technology, the project will produce, and test functional prototypes of compostable packaging derived from locally sourced seaweed. Simultaneously, it will investigate public attitudes, barriers, and drivers of adoption through qualitative methods. The project also integrates educational activities involving students from LTU’s material science courses. Outcomes will include a prototype, user insights, at least two conference papers and at least two peer-reviewed journal articles, laying the groundwork for future research and external funding in sustainable materials and circular food systems.