SUSPLAS@UniTo

Who we are

SusPlas@UniTo - the University of Turin's Scientific Platform on Sustainable Plastics

SusPlas is the multidisciplinary platform on plastic sustainability at the University of Turin.

It brings together several researchers from the University to study the environmental, health, and socioeconomic impacts of plastics and address the challenges posed by their widespread use in various agricultural and industrial sectors.

SusPlas conducts research on microplastics and sustainable plastics, such as those that are biodegradable, recyclable, and made from renewable resources.

Research at SUSPLAS@UniTo

SusPlas research offers a One Health perspective on renewable plastic sources, waste reduction, recycling, and carbon emissions mitigation. The platform comprehensively addresses sustainability challenges across every stage of the plastic life cycle, from raw material selection and production to distribution, use, and end-of-life management. Through its research, SusPlas promotes innovation in diverse sectors, including packaging, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and energy, supporting the transition toward a more sustainable and circular plastics economy.

Innovation for the Circular Economy

The Doctorate in Innovation for the Circular Economy trains researchers capable of addressing the challenges of sustainable development through innovative and resource-efficient solutions. This interdisciplinary program combines science, economics, and policy studies to train candidates in key circular economy topics. Graduates are prepared to work in industry, research, and government institutions to foster a more resilient and circular future.

Collaborating with our Doctorate students in Circular Economy offers companies privileged access to specialized expertise and innovative research. Thanks to partnerships ranging from applied research to the development of circular business models and solutions, UniTo is a key partner for organizations seeking to lead the transition to a sustainable and circular economy.

Chemistry and Materials Sciences

The PhD program in Chemistry and Materials Science trains researchers for innovation in advanced materials, including sustainable polymer technologies. This interdisciplinary program combines chemistry, physics, and engineering to equip candidates with the skills needed to design and develop innovative polymers and materials for a wide range of applications, from biodegradable plastics to advanced composites. Participants are prepared to lead research in the development of next-generation materials that improve performance, reduce environmental impact, and stimulate innovation in various industrial sectors.

Our PhD students in Chemistry and Materials Science deepen their knowledge of materials innovation and sustainable chemistry. With a focus on the development of next-generation materials, improving product performance, and reducing environmental impact, UniTo is a strategic partner for organizations seeking to push the boundaries of technological progress and materials sustainability.

Coordinator of the SUSPLAS@UniTo platform

Prof. Marco Zanetti

Marco Zanetti is Full Professor of Industrial Chemistry (sector CHIM/04) at the Department of Chemistry of the University of Turin. His research activity is His research focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of polymeric and nanocomposite materials, with a focus on properties such as flame retardancy, environmental sustainability, and biomedical applications. He is the author of over 78 indexed publications and boasts an H-index of 31.

In recent years, he has expanded his interests to include polymers from renewable sources and polymeric nanosponges for controlled drug release and pollutant capture. He coordinates and participates in multidisciplinary and international projects, is a member of numerous scientific associations, and holds editorial roles as Associate Editor for industry journals. He is active in organizing national and international conferences and scientific schools in the field of polymer chemistry.