TEX-INSECT - Valorization of TEXtile waste streams through an innovative INSECT-based biorefinery

Purpose and goal:

TEX-INSECT aims to valorize non-recyclable plastic waste into sustainable bioproducts by developing a novel insect- based biorefinery. Based on one specific insect, G. mellonella, the biorefinery enables the insects to digest and transform plastics, including non-recyclable plastic waste, into bioproducts such as proteins and lipids.

TEX-INSECT is focusing on processing and transforming several mixtures and complex co-polymers separated from post-consumer textile waste. Expected results and effects:

TEX-INSECT will establish the foundation for a system of decentralized biorefineries and provide recycling services of non-recycled plastic waste, from the textile industry and textile waste management companies. The developed technology enables re-entering of textile waste into a new economical cycle, thus fostering the realization of circular economy by synergistic approach among two different industries: textile- and insect- production and transformation.

Approach and implementation:

TEX-INSECT project will be implemented through several stages. Chemical processing to separate the polymer side stream will be developed. The plastic waste will be processed by insects and insect-based procedures to deal with plastic waste streams will be developed. Finally, an optimized processing of products derived from the insects and a specific insect-rearing system will be developed.