Biodegradable Materials and Sustainable Packaging: Una Europa PhD Impact Award for Angelica Giovagnoli

Angelica Giovagnoli, PhD candidate at the Department of Industrial Chemistry "Toso Montanari” of the University of Bologna, is among the winners of the 2025 Una Europa PhD Impact Award in the Future Materials and Technologies category.

The initiative — promoted by Una Europa, the university alliance bringing together eleven prestigious European universities, including the University of Bologna — aims to highlight PhD projects capable of generating a tangible impact on society, the economy, the environment, culture, politics, health, education and technology.

Dr Giovagnoli’s research explores the potential of cellulose-based materials for developing sustainable packaging solutions. In collaboration with SACMI — a global leader in providing advanced technologies for the ceramics, plastics, metals, food & beverage, packaging and advanced materials sectors — Angelica is working on the design of biodegradable materials capable of replacing traditional plastics.

The goal of her research is to contribute to the advancement of green chemistry, the circular economy and more sustainable production processes for the materials industry — a highly topical challenge that combines scientific rigour with care for the planet’s needs.

Angelica also chose to take part in the competition because of her interest in science communication:

“I strongly believe in the importance of sharing scientific research beyond academic boundaries. This experience has prompted me to reflect not only on what I study and how I do it, but above all on why it matters. It helped me rediscover the deeper meaning of my work and strengthened my commitment to science that is both rigorous and socially engaged,” she said.

The winners of the Una Europa PhD Impact Award will have the opportunity to present their research during the 2025 Berlin Science Week (1–10 November), following a workshop dedicated to communication. This will be a chance to share their work with an international audience of researchers, innovators, and citizens.

Angelica Giovagnoli’s success confirms the University of Bologna’s commitment to promoting research that combines scientific excellence, social impact, and international openness, and demonstrates the value of European initiatives supporting the new generations of researchers.