The Oceanzyme project focuses on seeking new solutions for the enzymatic recycling of marine waste. The initiative was launched to address the problem of plastic waste accumulating in deep-sea environments which, due to its advanced degree of degradation, loses its original physico-mechanical properties. This in turn makes processing with conventional mechanical recycling methods difficult and limits the possibility of reintroducing these materials into the plastics value chain. The project consortium aims to develop an effective alternative for this waste stream using an approach based on enzymatic processes. In addition, the project includes an assessment of the application potential of the products generated in this process in sectors such as fisheries and aquaculture.
The project will run from 2026 to 2028. The consortium consists of the plastics technology centre Aimplas, the Institute of Marine Sciences and the Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia of CSIC. Coordination is provided by the Vertidos Cero Association. Work began at the end of January 2026. The project is being carried out in collaboration with the Biodiversity Foundation of the Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge under the Pleamar Programme. In addition, the undertaking is co-funded by the European Union through EMFAF, the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund.
Integrated approach to marine waste recycling
Oceanzyme is based on an integrated approach combining metagenomic analyses, enzymatic characterisation and molecular simulations with the isolation of bacteria showing functional degradation capabilities. The aim is to valorise marine waste collected by fishers through enzymatic recycling and to examine the possibility of using the resulting products in sectors related to the marine economy.
For this purpose, passive fishing campaigns are planned in two of Spain's five marine regions, the North Atlantic and the Levantine-Balearic region, where average waste densities range from 40 to 300 items per km². These activities are intended to remove marine litter from the environment. The collected plastic waste will be characterised in terms of the microbial communities associated with it using metagenomics. In parallel, pure culture isolations of bacteria with the potential to degrade various polymer compounds will be carried out.
In addition, the project provides for the identification of enzymes with degradation potential, their 3D modelling together with polymer substrates, followed by production and testing for possible use in enzymatic recycling processes. This approach is intended to enable a better understanding of degradation mechanisms and an assessment of the usefulness of selected biological systems in practical recycling applications.
Scope of the consortium's expertise
According to the information provided by the participants, the project combines the expertise of all involved organisations in waste removal protocols, studies on marine microorganisms, molecular simulations and plastics recycling. Oceanzyme is also intended to support the circular economy, protection of the marine environment and technology transfer through communication activities and dissemination of project results.
