Italian startup Bi-rex has set out to find an alternative to this food waste, which is harmful both to the environment and to corporate coffers. Their idea is to reuse agrifood waste to produce cellulose, used in papermaking, and chitin, a natural polymer with various uses, including the production of bioplastics. This process takes place through the use of non-toxic solvents called DES Solvents (Deep Eutectic Solvents), developed by Bi-rex itself and capable of being reused multiple times. This makes it possible to reduce the use of highly polluting chemicals, such as organic solvents or strong acids and bases, used in traditional processes. An additional benefit is a 70 percent decrease in CO2 emissions, 95 percent decrease in water consumption and energy required.

Bi-rex’s innovative approach also addresses the growing demand for cellulose, a material whose annual per capita consumption in Italy is about 200 kilograms. It is estimated that as many as two trees per year are needed to meet the paper demand of an average family of four, which is a claim that is difficult to sustain in the long run.

Alternative sources of raw material and processes that minimize the production of waste for incineration have been sought for years. War and raw material shortages have created an increasingly urgent need, so the effort that needs to be made is to start thinking about a precious resource to valorize.