POLYMERS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Materials for a more sustainable chemistry and industry.

At POLYMAT, we develop chemical strategies and polymeric materials aimed at reducing environmental impact and advancing towards more sustainable production models.
From green catalysis to chemical recycling and biopolymers, our research contributes to the transition to a circular economy.


The Polymers and Sustainability area investigates the design of alternative catalysts, depolymerization processes, and new bio-based materials that can replace polluting technologies and valorize waste. Our work integrates sustainable chemistry, polymer engineering, and circular economy principles to develop efficient solutions for recycling, membrane separation, and biodegradable materials for agri-food systems.

Research lines

Sustainable Catalysis

Coordinator: Fernando Vidal

Polymer recycling

Coordinator: Haritz Sardon

Membranes for water and air

Coordinator: Thomas Schäfer

Biopolymers for agri-food systems

Coordinator: Danila Merino

Sustainable Packaging Materials

Coordinator: Ainara Sangroniz

Latest doctoral theses


Advancing the Recycling of Heteropolymers: Strategies Toward More Efficient and Sustainable Processes

Emelin Yhoany Luna Barrios

Supervisión: Prof. Dr. Haritz Sardon and Prof. Dr. Steven de Meester

20/02/2026
9:00 am

News related to the area


Master’s Thesis Defences Mark the End of the Academic Year

Master’s thesis defences bring another academic year of research and learning at EHU and POLYMAT to a close.

27/07/2026

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Polimeroen zientzian murgiltzeko hiru irakurketa

Three new outreach articles showcase POLYMAT and EHU research on polymers and their impact on society. Covering sustainability, energy and health, the articles are written in Basque and can be translated automatically in most web browsers.

10/07/2026

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POLYMAT Researchers at Materialen Zientzia eta Teknologia 2026

More than 25 POLYMAT researchers took part in the Materials Science and Technology Conference, presenting their latest research in Basque. The biennial meeting promotes scientific exchange while strengthening the use of Basque as a language for materials science.

09/07/2026

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