Described in D2.3 “ANIPH SSbD Framework” and authored by KVC and AUA, the framework provides a structured methodology to guide the design and evaluation of ANIPH’s innovative wound dressings and flexible packaging solutions, ensuring they are safe, environmentally sustainable, socially responsible, and economically viable throughout their entire life cycle. Building on the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre SSbD approach, the ANIPH framework goes further by systematically integrating social and economic sustainability alongside safety and environmental performance.

Developed through a review of EU guidelines, international recommendations, and previous EU-funded research, the framework combines design principles and measurable indicators with established assessment tools such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA), and Life Cycle Costing (LCC). It also lays the foundation for a digital Evaluation and Decision Support Tool, enabling transparent, data-driven decision-making as ANIPH technologies progress from early development stages toward real-world application.

The framework builds directly on the mapping of Information and Labelling Systems (ILS) conducted in Deliverable D2.2, ensuring alignment between SSbD indicators and the data requirements of existing standards, certifications and labelling schemes.

The framework operates through an integrated ICT platform comprising three interconnected tools: a traceability tool for secure value chain information management, an evaluation & decision tool integrating the assessment matrix for evidence-based decision-making, and a public tool for transparent stakeholder communication of value chain impacts and performance.

By establishing a common evaluation basis across the project, the ANIPH SSbD Framework marks a significant step toward mitigating the negative impacts of plastic materials while supporting innovation aligned with EU sustainability objectives.

Cover photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash