77677Novel Biodegradable Tree Guards - BioTGuardClosedSmall Business Research InitiativeInnovate UKThe BioTGuard project will develop a novel bio-based, biodegradable tree guard that will reduce (and eventually eliminate) the environmental burden of the current / conventional plastic (polypropylene based) design. The established, tried and tested tree guard design will support the tree saplings without compromising their growth whilst the controlled degradation will make sure that the shelters will degrade within 5-7 years after the trees have reached suitable maturity. The project will be delivered in collaboration with established UK based manufacturing and testing organisations. Crucial advice will be sought from leading UK forestry management and non-profit organisations, who will be involved in the planned Phase 2 prototype deployment (and field monitoring) at various UK locations. In addition, as part of Phase2, further manufacturing expansion and field testing outside the UK will be explored.