With the support of COMPETE2030-FEDER-00589800, Nautilus, in partnership with the Fibrenamics Institute and B4Logic, is taking an important step in the transformation of the furniture sector, proposing innovative solutions that reduce the ecological footprint and open up pathways for new business models based on the circular economy.

Launched in October 2023, the project aims to develop new sustainable raw materials from recycled polymeric and cellulosic waste, such as plastic (PP) and wood, for school furniture components. Using up to 80% recycled materials, BornRecycled strives to significantly reduce virgin raw materials' use.

Furthermore, the project proposes the implementation of an innovative business model based on the PaaS (Product-as-a-Service) concept. This model promotes the extension of product lifespans and integrated “cradle-to-cradle” management, enabling the continuous reuse and recycling of materials to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency.

With completion expected in September 2025, BornRecycled is anticipated to open new doors for a more sustainable and eco-efficient market, aligned with the demands of an increasingly environmentally responsible market. According to Pedro Sottomayor, Product Design Director at Nautilus, the mass production of disposable products is not sustainable, and there is an urgent need for a “shift in mindset” focused on “quality products, long durability, and the reuse of resources used.”

To highlight the innovative solutions emerging from this project, BornRecycled will be presented at two major international trade fairs in the fields of education and composite materials: Didacta 2025, which will take place from February 11 to 15 in Stuttgart, and JEC World 2025, from March 10 to 12 in Paris. For João Bessa, R&D+I Manager at Fibrenamics, this project has proven to be “quite challenging and has engaged everyone, especially due to the application of scientific knowledge capital in the development of more sustainable school furniture items.”