Kassandra Lora

A bio-material solution to reduce plastic pollution on the oceans

Plastic pollution in the oceans is a growing problem, especially in the fishing industry, where plastic-based gear is used causing harm to the seas. Dolly ropes and crayfish traps are often worn down and lost, contributing to microplastic pollution, entanglements and ghost gear. At the same time, the wine industry generates enormous amounts of grape pomace, a by-product of which about 5 million tons is produced in Europe annually and which often goes to waste or is used in limited ways, such as in animal feed and beauty products. However, research has shown that these leftovers offer valuable benefits for the gut health of fish and shrimp, presenting new opportunities for different eco-friendly applications in marine environments.

FROM WINE TO GEAR repurposes wine waste by using it to create biodegradable fishing gear for both commercial and private use. By developing sustainable alternatives to plastic-based dolly ropes and crayfish cages, we can eliminate plastic from the seas and replace it with biodegradable materials that won’t harm the marine environment and its inhabitants and, at the same time, create a new perspective on the fishing industry, one that prioritises the care of marine ecosystems and the responsible use of resources.

The design has hydrodynamic shapes that enhance its functionalities by reducing water resistance, improving stability and efficient movement on currents, demonstrating that grape pomace composites, together with design, can be effectively used in different forms and manufacturing processes, such as 3D-printing and heat-pressing.