The aim of the project is to develop an artificial substrate (compost substitute) for the mass propagation of plantlets, primarily for use in the horticultural industry.

The project aims to develop synthetic and sustainable (plant product-based) alternatives to peat-based composts for plant growth, given the strong drive from industry and environmental agencies to eliminate the use of peat, in response to pressure around biodiversity and carbon capture in peat bogs - their exploitation is not sustainable.

The importance of this is reflected in the UK Government's 2021 'Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener', which is committed to increasing investment in industry-led research and development in solutions to help deliver a net zero agriculture and horticulture.

The project will also support our new biological applications using sustainable gels.