Biodegradable Mulch Films with Smart Water Management Set to Revolutionize Sustainable Agriculture

A major European innovation project is developing next-generation cellulose-based biodegradable mulch films featuring nature-inspired microfluidic structures for passive water management. The CELLAGRI project, coordinated by Fraunhofer FEP and bringing together nine partners from seven European countries, aims to create sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based mulch films with the goal of reducing environmental impact by at least 30% compared to conventional plastic films. Agriculture in Europe currently consumes more than 80,000 tons of mulch films annually—almost exclusively made of plastic—with up to 30% not recovered from fields after use, leading to significant microplastic pollution. The innovative films direct water specifically to planting holes, increasing water availability fourfold, while degrading completely in soil after the growing season without leaving harmful residues. Atmospheric plasma treatment creates hydrophilic and hydrophobic areas that further improve water management and provide anti-mold properties