Recently, two innovative technology solutions from Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU) were honored at the award ceremony of the “Plastic Circular Innovation Solutions 2024” competition. These pioneering solutions contribute significantly to the plastic circular value chain and help minimize plastic waste.
The two awarded solutions were: (1) “3SR – Smart Recycling Station Integrated into Green Mini Retail Chains” developed by a research team from the School of Interdisciplinary Sciences and Arts, and (2) “S4N – Fully Biodegradable Bioplastic” developed by a research team from the VNU University of Science.
The “Plastic Circular Innovation Solutions 2024” competition was organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Unilever Vietnam, the British Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (BritCham), and the Vietnam Science and Technology Startup Fund (SVF). The competition aimed to identify and promote innovative solutions within the plastic circular economy value chain, with a particular focus on new approaches that enhance the collection, sorting, and recycling capacity of plastic packaging — especially soft plastics. The participating technological solutions showcased breakthroughs in tackling plastic waste, particularly soft plastics, which make up a significant proportion of daily household waste but are often not effectively treated.
The awarded solutions are not only highly practical but also demonstrate a long-term vision in building a circular economy — one that balances economic benefits with sustainable social and environmental impacts.
The winning teams will continue to receive support from strategic partners of the program, such as Unilever Vietnam, Standard Chartered Ventures, and the Office of the National EPR Council. This collaboration will help the teams further refine, commercialize, and scale up their solutions for real-world implementation.
3SR – Smart Retail, Refill, and Recycling Model
3SR is a green retail model that integrates three core functions: smart retail, smart refill, and smart recycling (automated waste collection and sorting). Its business model focuses on developing software that connects resources generated from waste, managing retail chains linked to carbon and plastic credits — all contributing to Vietnam’s Net Zero 2050 goal.
The automated weighing and sorting station helps users quantify and classify recyclable waste. In return, they earn points that can be converted into monetary value, which can then be used to purchase products within the 3SR retail system.
Currently, 3SR stations are deployed in schools, hospitals, and densely populated residential areas across Hanoi, serving as a tool to guide and establish waste-sorting habits at the source.
S4N – Fully Biodegradable Bioplastic
S4N – Seedling for Nature is the result of cutting-edge research and development in biomaterials conducted by scientists from the VNU University of Science. The project is a collaboration between the university’s faculty, HUSCO (Natural Science Company), the KLAMAG National Key Laboratory, and BABIO Green Technology JSC. S4N aims to provide environmentally friendly solutions, contributing to plastic pollution reduction and supporting a circular economy.
The biomaterial technology behind S4N not only replaces conventional plastics but also retains similar physicochemical properties, ensuring consumers do not need to change their usage habits. S4N’s bioplastic products are both practical and efficient, meeting the needs of businesses and consumers alike.
Currently, S4N has successfully tested and launched its first biodegradable product — the S4N bioplastic straw — which has received positive feedback from users. Additionally, the project has successfully developed the S4N biodegradable bag, scheduled for market release in November 2024. Each product from S4N is not only environmentally friendly but also seamlessly integrates into everyday life.
Source: vnu.edu.vn