Borba Tex Project: Grape Waste Transformed into Bio-Paste for Fashion and Design

Lusófona University is at the forefront of sustainable innovation with the project of a bio-paste created from wine production waste. This solution was developed by a team of researchers and professors from the university, in collaboration with Borba City Council and Adega de Borba. The project was presented at the III Symposium of Fashion and the Textile and Clothing Industry (ITV), organised by the university, and is already attracting interest in both national and international markets.

Led by Alexandra Cruchinho, director of Fashion Design and Production at Lusófona University, and the professors and researchers Mónica Gonçalves and João Barata, the team developed a sustainable bio-paste from leaves and grape stalks, materials traditionally discarded after the grape harvest. “This project represents a fusion between science and design, to create an innovative product that can be used in various applications, from fashion to equipment design,” the director stated.

The designer Luís Buchinho, known for his work in haute couture, actively participated in the development and application of Borba Tex in the fashion sector, contributing with his creative vision. “Fashion is increasingly moving towards sustainable solutions, and Borba Tex has the potential to become a reference in this field. We have tested the material in accessories and footwear, and the results have been promising,” commented Buchinho.

The support of Borba City Council and Adega de Borba was essential for the success of this project. Sofia Dias, Councillor of Borba City Council, highlighted the importance of the initiative for the region. “Borba Tex is not just an innovation, it is an opportunity for Borba to reposition itself as a centre of sustainable innovation. The council is committed to supporting projects like this, which value our resources and bring new opportunities to the local community,” she said.

Andreia Gonçalves, a representative of Adega de Borba, emphasised the importance of a sustainable approach in the wine industry. “This partnership allows Adega de Borba to add even more value to our production, transforming what was once considered waste into a high-value raw material. We are very proud to be part of this project, which promotes sustainability and innovation,” stated Andreia.

The team at Lusófona University is now testing the various applications of Borba Tex to assess its market potential. “We are already testing the material with students, and the preliminary results are very promising,” explained Alexandra Cruchinho, who also emphasised the strong local and sustainable nature of the project. She highlighted that the bio-paste is in the process of being patented, a crucial step for its entry into the market.

Borba Tex has a promising future. The expectation is that the product will be presented at innovation and fashion fairs, both nationally and internationally, as soon as the patent is registered. The project thus represents a new approach to sustainability, showing that it is possible to turn waste into opportunities and create synergy between science, design, and the local economy.

Production
Ana Azevedo

Images
Carolina Cebanu

Editing
Cristo Chikalle