RETAIN Project Kicks Off in Kortrijk: Launching a Circular Future for Tarpaulins
- Mirriam Montah
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 23
On 19–20 May 2025, the RETAIN project officially launched with a successful Kick-off Meeting in Kortrijk, Belgium, hosted at Centexbel/VKC. Gathering together 16 partners from across Europe, including industrial representatives, technical partners, and research institutions, the meeting marked the formal start of a four-year journey to solve the challenges of the circularity of PVC tarpaulins in Europe.
The RETAIN project aims to achieve 90% circular use of tarpaulins by 2036 through advanced recycling technologies, innovative circular business models, and digital solutions like Digital Product Passports (DPPs). Funded under the Horizon Europe programme, RETAIN brings together an expert consortium to demonstrate large-scale recycling, reuse, and remanufacturing of complex plastic materials.
Highlights from the Kick-Off Agenda:
📍 Day 1 (May 19):
Warm welcome from SIOEN and Centexbel (CTB)
Project overview and partner introductions
Presentation by the EU Project Officer
Deep dives into each Work Package (WP)
Networking and collaboration continued over dinner and a guided VIZIT tour through historic Kortrijk
📍 Day 2 (May 20):
Discussions on practical and administrative procedures
Clear planning for the next 6 months of work per WP, emphasizing coordination, reporting, and data sharing
Tour of the hosting facility provided inspiration for upcoming demo activities
Wrap-up and forward-looking remarks followed by a networking lunch.
Looking Ahead
With clear milestones, a motivated consortium, and strong EU support, the RETAIN project is set to drive significant impact across environmental, economic, and social fronts. From reducing CO₂ emissions and landfill waste to creating green jobs and circular product streams, RETAIN will be a flagship for sustainable plastics innovation in Europe.
Stay tuned for more updates as RETAIN moves forward!
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