Polymers have become an important part of everyday life, but most of the polymers currently used are petroleum-based. This poses an environmental problem, especially with respect to products that are quickly discarded. For this reason, current packaging development focuses on sustainable materials as an alternative to synthetic ones. Nanocellulose, a relatively new material derived from cellulose, has unique properties such as high strength, low density, high surface area, and good barrier properties, making it popular in various applications. Additionally, 3D printing technologies have become an important part of industrial and commercial processes, enabling the realization of innovative ideas and functionalities. The main aim of this research was to develop a hydrogel of bacterial nanocellulose with suitable rheological properties for the 3D printing of polymer foils. Three variations of bacterial nanocellulose hydrogel differing in ratios of bacterial nanocellulose to cationic starch were produced. The rheological studies confirmed the suitability of the hydrogels for 3D printing. Foils were successfully 3D-printed using a modified 3D printer. The physical-mechanical, surface, and optical properties of the foils were determined. All foils were homogeneous with adequate mechanical properties. The 3D-printed foils with the highest amount of cationic starch were the most homogeneous and transparent and, despite their rigidity, very strong. All foils were semi-transparent, had a non-glossy surface, and retained poor water wettability.

Purpose: The increasing emphasis on sustainable practices in managing plastic waste underscores the importance of education and training in fostering a circular economy. This article aims to elucidate the critical role of awareness-raising and capacity-building initiatives, which have become pivotal as societies transition towards more sustainable economic models, particularly concerning plastic management. Study design/methodology/approach: This article investigates online courses' availability, content, and methodological frameworks dedicated to the circular economy and plastic-related issues. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework that elucidates how these courses are designed to enhance awareness of plastic-related challenges, disseminate relevant knowledge, and educate the public about potential solutions. Findings: The analysis focuses on these courses' structure, content, and pedagogical methodologies to evaluate their effectiveness in informing and engaging learners. It assesses how effectively these courses enhance learners' capacities to tackle plastic-related challenges and equip them with the skills necessary for fostering innovation within the plastic value chain. Originality/value: While awareness-raising and capacity-building are essential for advancing a circular economy, systemic changes in production and consumption patterns are equally critical. The integration of advanced recycling methods, renewable energy solutions, and carbon capture technologies can significantly mitigate the plastic industry's carbon footprint. A holistic approach that comprehensively addresses the lifecycle of plastics—from design to disposal—is essential for achieving a genuinely circular and climate-neutral economy.

Industrial symbiosis (IS) and digital industrial symbiosis (DIS) are widely advocated as essential strategies for furthering circular economy (CE) goals within the European Union; yet empirical evidence about the preparedness of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) to use these methods is still scarce. This study investigates the organizational, technological, and perceptual aspects influencing SMEs’ preparedness to adopt IS and DIS, emphasizing digital maturity, perceived benefits, barriers, and the institutional support conditions. A convergent mixed-methods methodology was employed, combining qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with SMEs and intermediary organizations, alongside quantitative data from a structured survey conducted across various European countries. The study examined the relationships between adoption readiness and digital maturity, perceived benefits, barriers, and institutional support conditions, while qualitative insights offered further contextual comprehension of trust, governance, and implementation conditions. The findings indicate that digital maturity and perceived benefits are the primary determinants of adoption readiness, but perceived barriers and institutional support predominantly influence implementation feasibility rather than initial willingness. This study differentiates between motivational readiness and structural feasibility, thereby enhancing adoption models and offering insights for policymakers, intermediaries, and practitioners involved in the design of digital industrial symbiosis platforms and SME support instruments.