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EONANOBIOPS

Essential Oil-Derived Next Generation Nano-Biopesticides for Sustainable Eco-Friendly Agriculture
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Classification: 
international research
Programme: 
Other UE programmes
Call: 
Interreg NEXT MED Programme (2021–2027)
Main ERC field: 
Life Sciences
Unict role: 
Partner
Duration (months): 
36
Start date: 
Thursday, July 3, 2025
End date: 
Monday, July 3, 2028
Total cost: 
€ 2.700.000,00
Unict cost: 
€ 360.000,00
Coordinator: 
BERC - Biodiversity & Environmental Research Center (Nablus, Palestine)
Principal investigator in Unict: 
Prof.ssa Serena Riela
University department involved: 
Department of Chemical Sciences
Participants: 
  • Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax (Tunisia)
  • National Technical University of Athens Greece)
  • Agricultural University of Athens (Greece)
  • An-Najah National University (Palestine)
  • Connect'Innov (Tunisia)

Abstract

EONANOBIOPS aims to develop next-generation nano-biopesticides based on essential oils extracted from aromatic plants typical of the Mediterranean region, with the goal of promoting a more sustainable and eco-compatible model of agriculture.

The project integrates green nanotechnology with natural bioactive compounds to design innovative formulations using clay mineral nanocarriers, ensuring the controlled and prolonged release of natural biopesticides. This approach seeks to reduce the use of synthetic chemical pesticides, preserve soil and plant health, and enhance crop productivity while maintaining environmental and human safety.

Through a multidisciplinary and cross-border collaboration between research centers, universities, and innovation hubs from Mediterranean countries, EONANOBIOPS will contribute to the transition towards a resilient, resource-efficient agro-biotechnological sector in the region.

Financial Support

EONANOBIOPS is co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT MED Programme (2021–2027), with a total budget of €2.77 million, the EU Contribution (89%): €2,4 million. The Programme supports cross-border cooperation in the Mediterranean area to foster innovation, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.