Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025 – New with Biosynthetics!
2025-03-12 - 2025-03-13 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
The conference will again cover the entire value chain of the sustainable textile industry, from lignocellulose, pulp, cellulose fibres such as rayon, viscose, modal or lyocell and new developments to a wide range of applications:
Textiles from renewable fibres, nonwovens such as wet wipes, as well as areas such as composites, hygiene, packaging or nanocellulose in the food industry. This year, for the first time, the conference will include a dedicated session on biosynthetics – a promising area to complement the alternative for bio-based textiles. Deep insights will be offered into the future of cellulose fibres, which fits perfectly with the current shift towards circular economy, recycling and sustainable carbon cycles.
Further information at: https://cellulose-fibres.eu

WaterProof Webinar: Unlocking CCU Potential Through Electrochemistry
2025-03-25 13:00 - 14:30 (Europe/Berlin)
25 March 2025, 13:00-14:30 CET, online
Electrochemistry is rapidly emerging as a key technology for Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU), offering a sustainable route to transform CO₂ emissions into a valuable resource for the chemical and materials industry. Many valuable chemicals or fuels can be produced from electrochemistry: CO, methane, methanol, formic acid, ethane, ethanol, ethylene, oxalic acid and other hydrocarbons. The development of electrocatalytic CO2 reduction is progressing, with much interest in commodity chemicals such as ethylene to break down barriers to market entry. This innovative approach promises not only to mitigate climate change but also to reduce industries’ dependence on fossil resources, driving a significant shift towards global sustainability goals.

The EU-funded WaterProof project invites researchers and industry stakeholders to an insightful webinar on 25 March 2025, from 13:00 to 14:30 CET. This event will showcase the latest advancements in electrochemical CO₂ conversion and their potential to transform entire industries by making chemical production more sustainable.

The webinar will feature presentations from leading experts:

Patrick Löb (Fraunhofer IMM): Introduction to the ShaPID project’s innovative electrochemical process for sustainable formic acid production.
Brian Rawls (Avantium/Volta): Exploration of electrochemical production of CO₂-based polyesters and chemicals, and introduction of the WaterProof project’s technology for electrochemical CO₂ conversion into formic acid.
Danny Hellebusch (Twelve): Demonstration of Twelve’s revolutionary “industrial photosynthesis” technology, which Twelve has successfully scaled up to transform CO₂ into products ranging from sustainable aviation fuel to car components.

The webinar offers a unique opportunity to engage with leading experts and gain valuable insights into the future of electrochemistry in CCU.
Register here!

For more information on the WaterProof project, visit https://waterproof-project.eu.
WaterProof is Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

BioReCer- and 3-CO-Webinar: Digital Solutions for a Bio-Based Future – Empowering Industry and Consumers (Free Webinar)
2025-04-08 13:00 - 14:30
April 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM CET, online

Digital innovation can play a crucial role in strengthening the competitiveness of bio-based feedstocks and products in the European bioeconomy. By providing consumers and industry with essential information on sustainability and circularity criteria of bio-based products and their value chains, digital solutions and tools improve the tracking and traceability of biological feedstocks from their origin to a final product. These digital tools offer valuable insights into a wide range of sustainability criteria, e.g., climate impacts, environmental effects on soil, water and air quality and technical performance. By covering these key areas, digital tools enable a holistic understanding of the sustainability performance of bio-based products and processes throughout their lifecycle.
Digital solutions are also instrumental in the realm of Labels and Certification Schemes (LCS) for bio-based products. These digital tools provide essential information on trustworthy eco-labels and clarify requirements for concise certifications of bio-based value chains. This capability is particularly valuable in promoting transparency and boosting consumer confidence in bio-based products. By offering clear insights into eco-label standards and certification processes, these digital tools empower both consumers and industry stakeholders to make informed decisions, ultimately fostering greater trust in the bio-based sector.
Building upon these capabilities, artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies offer a unique advantage in this context. These tools are designed to continuously learn from user and developer input, enabling them to analyse and pass on current and real-time data on raw material flows, value chain information, and the sustainability of bio-based products.
Digital solutions are set to boost the European bioeconomy by providing critical information on feedstock tracking, sustainability, and certification for bio-based products.
To showcase these advances, a free webinar hosted by Horizon Europe projects 3-CO and BioReCer will introduce several innovative digital tools.
Scheduled for April 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM CET, the event offers an excellent opportunity to understand the future of digital technologies in the bioeconomy. Four tools developed by EU-funded projects will be presented and made available to users in the near future.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lP06EuYaQ0arvrof5ZnEAw

Further information:
3-CO (https://3co-project.eu)
Loha Hashimi and Armand Carreras from ENIDE will present the consumer-based digital solutions developed within the project 3-CO that provides information on eco-labels and certification of bio-based products from different categories in order to support sustainable consumption.
BiobasedCert Cluster (https://sustcert4biobased.eu/about-us/biobasedcert-group)
The BiobasedCert Cluster consists of the three EU-funded projects Star4bbs (https://star4bbs.eu/), HARMONITOR (https://www.harmonitor.eu/) and Sustcert4Biobased (https://sustcert4biobased.eu/). Luana Ladu from TU Berlin will present an app that assesses the robustness, comprehensiveness and effectiveness of existing certification schemes and labels for bio-based value chains.
Bioradar (https://www.bioradar.org)
David Nettleton and Poojan Timilsina from IRIS Technology will present the project’s digital self-assessment tool that assesses the performance of industrial bio-based systems, aiding relevant stakeholders in informed decision-making.
BioReCer (https://biorecer.eu)
Romain Magnani from EGM will present the BioReCer ICT tool (BIT), an automated assessment tool that collects and transmits real-time data on the environmental performance of bio-based value chains promoting environmentally conscious decisions and sustainable practices in the bioeconomy.

FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029
2025-05-07 14:00 - 15:00
FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029
Hosts: Michael Carus, Lars Börger and Pia Skoczinski (all nova-Institute)
7 May from 14:00 to 15:00h CET (online) – free of charge

In this upcoming nova Session, a free webinar, the latest insights from our key report “Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029“, will be presented.
2024 was a respectable year for bio-based polymers, with an overall expected CAGR of 13 % to 2029. Overall, bio-based biodegradable polymers have large installed capacities with an expected CAGR of 17 % to 2029, but the current average capacity utilisation is moderate at 65 %. In contrast, bio-based non-biodegradable polymers have a much higher utilisation rate of 90 %, but will only grow by 10 % to 2029.
Epoxy resin and PUR production is growing moderately at 9 and 8 %, respectively, while PP and cyclic APC capacities are increasing by 30 %. Despite a decline in production of biodegradables, especially for PLA in Asia, capacities have increased by 40 %. The same applies to PHA capacities. Commercial newcomers such as casein polymers and PEF recorded a rise in production capacity and are expected to continue to grow significantly until 2029.
Register now for free: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z2ZObwv3T5aeKufxJgyJtA

FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029, 12 May
2025-05-12 15:00 - 16:00
FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029
Host: Michael Carus (nova-Institute)
12 May from 15:00 to 16:00h CET (online) – free of charge
In this upcoming nova Session, a free webinar, the latest insights from our key report “Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029“, will be presented.
2024 was a respectable year for bio-based polymers, with an overall expected CAGR of 13 % to 2029. Overall, bio-based biodegradable polymers have large installed capacities with an expected CAGR of 17 % to 2029, but the current average capacity utilisation is moderate at 65 %. In contrast, bio-based non-biodegradable polymers have a much higher utilisation rate of 90 %, but will only grow by 10 % to 2029.
Epoxy resin and PUR production is growing moderately at 9 and 8 %, respectively, while PP and cyclic APC capacities are increasing by 30 %. Despite a decline in production of biodegradables, especially for PLA in Asia, capacities have increased by 40 %. The same applies to PHA capacities. Commercial newcomers such as casein polymers and PEF recorded a rise in production capacity and are expected to continue to grow significantly until 2029.
Register now for free: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3wnrxZonQHuIgdZWZHvOcg

WaterProof Webinar: From Emissions to Innovation: CO₂-Derived Chemicals
2025-05-20 13:00 - 14:30
20 May 2025, 13:00-14:30 CET, online
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is known as the main driver of climate change. Yet, CO₂ is increasingly recognised as a promising renewable feedstock for the production of valuable chemicals and fuels. By capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial point sources or directly from the air (direct air capture, DAC) and converting them into essential building blocks, it is possible to reduce reliance on fossil resources from below ground, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and help drive the transition to a circular, climate-neutral economy.
Recent advances and innovations in Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) technologies are making it feasible to transform CO₂ into a wide range of products, ranging from base chemicals to advanced fuels. These innovations are not only closing the carbon loop of the chemical industry (defossilisation) but also enabling the integration of renewable energy and transport fuels (decarbonisation) into chemical processes, further reducing the environmental footprint of these vital industries.

Expanding the portfolio: What can be Made from CO₂?
The spectrum of CO₂-derived chemicals and fuels is rapidly expanding thanks to breakthroughs in electrochemical, catalytic, and biotechnological processes. Some of the most promising examples include:
Chemicals such as Methanol, Formic acid, Ethanol, Acetic acid, Urea, Polycarbonates and cyclic carbonates, Organic acids (e.g., carboxylic acids, salicylic acid, malonic acid), Esters and lactones, Aromatics and olefins, Glycerol carbonate.
Fuels such as Synthetic gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, Methane, and E-fuels.
These examples illustrate the broad potential of CO₂ as a renewable carbon source for the chemical and materials industry and the energy sector, supporting the shift towards sustainability and circularity.
These examples illustrate the broad potential of CO₂ as a renewable carbon source for the chemical and materials industry and the energy sector, supporting the shift towards sustainability and circularity.

Join the Conversation: “From Emissions to Innovation” Webinar
To explore these exciting developments, the EU-funded research project WaterProof is hosting a webinar titled “From Emissions to Innovation: CO₂-Derived Chemicals” on May 20th, 2025, from 13:00 to 14:30 CET.
The event will bring together leading experts including

Pia Skoczinski (nova-Institute) – Renewable Chemicals from CO₂ – An Overview
Francesca di Bartolomeo (SINTEF, coordinator PyroCO2 Project) – Pioneering Sustainable CO₂ Conversion to C3 Chemicals and High-Value Lipids for Feed and Food Applications
Albert Guisasola (Univesity Barcelona, Vivaldi Project) – Innovative bio-based chains for CO2 valorisation as added-value organic acids
Eric Schuler (Avantium, WaterProof Project).

Attendees will gain insights into the latest CCU technologies, market trends, and applications that are driving the shift towards a circular carbon economy.
Discover how CO₂ is being utilised as a valuable resource and learn about the innovations shaping the future of sustainable chemicals. Register now to be part of this dynamic conversation and help unlock the full potential of CO₂-derived chemicals.
Register here!

The EU-funded WaterProof Project (urban WAste and water Treatment Emission Reduction by utilizing CO₂ for the PROduction Of Formate derived chemicals) aims to lead CO2 utilisation by prime example. WaterProof is developing an electrochemical process that converts CO₂ emissions from waste incineration and wastewater treatment plants into formic acid through electrochemistry. This approach not only reduces emissions but also supports the circular use of resources in urban environments. The project’s work demonstrates how CO₂ can be transformed into a valuable feedstock for a range of sustainable applications, with pilot-scale implementation already underway.
For more information on the WaterProof project, visit https://waterproof-project.eu.
WaterProof is Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029, 22 May
2025-05-22 11:00 - 12:00
FREE nova Session: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029
Hosts: Pia Skoczinski and Lars Börger (all nova-Institute)
22 May from 11:00 to 12:00h CET (online) – free of charge

In this upcoming nova Session, a free webinar, the latest insights from our key report “Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029“, will be presented.
2024 was a respectable year for bio-based polymers, with an overall expected CAGR of 13 % to 2029. Overall, bio-based biodegradable polymers have large installed capacities with an expected CAGR of 17 % to 2029, but the current average capacity utilisation is moderate at 65 %. In contrast, bio-based non-biodegradable polymers have a much higher utilisation rate of 90 %, but will only grow by 10 % to 2029.
Epoxy resin and PUR production is growing moderately at 9 and 8 %, respectively, while PP and cyclic APC capacities are increasing by 30 %. Despite a decline in production of biodegradables, especially for PLA in Asia, capacities have increased by 40 %. The same applies to PHA capacities. Commercial newcomers such as casein polymers and PEF recorded a rise in production capacity and are expected to continue to grow significantly until 2029.
Register now for free: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eqGMPP_3RPuIdpSJOnVgsw

FREE nova Session: Circular Economy in Transition: Discovering new Technologies and Markets, 12 June
2025-06-12 11:00 - 12:00
FREE nova Session: Circular Economy in Transition: Discovering new Technologies and Markets

Hosts: Dr. Pia Skoczinski, Dr. Achim Raschka, Dr. Lars Krause, Narendar Poranki, Gillian Tweddle (nova-Institute)
12 June from 11:00 to 12:00h CET (online) – free of charge
At the upcoming free nova Session “Circular Economy in Transition: Discovering new Technologies and Markets”, the nova-Institute will present its comprehensive portfolio of strategic services designed to support innovation and market development in the renewable carbon economy. Participants will gain insight into nova’s expertise in market research, trend and competitive analysis, supply and demand dynamics, feasibility studies, business planning, and tailored expert workshops. The session will demonstrate how these services help companies navigate technological, regulatory, and market challenges to successfully transition towards bio-based, CO2-based, and recycling-driven solutions. Participants are invited to explore how nova’s data-driven insights and technology scouting can accelerate their path to sustainable growth and innovation.
Register now!
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KJ3l2IV7TDmWqXjS9Ne1iw

nova Session: Policy Update on Circular Economy for the Chemicals and Materials Sector
2025-06-25 13:00 - 15:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-policy-update-on-circular-economy-for-the-chemicals-and-materials-sector/
Hosts: Kaj Seeger and Luciano Proto Cassina (all nova-Institute)
13:00 – 15:00 (CET)
Europe, and crucially, the chemicals and materials sector, is currently facing several challenges due to a rapidly changing global context. These changes are underpined by the ongoing impacts of the war in Ukraine, fluctuating trade relations, economic stagnation, and the urgent need to address climate change.
The European Union has already recognised the potential that the chemicals and materials industries have to drive economic growth and mitigate climate. For this reason, the European Union continues to foster its transformation to a sustainable and resilient economy, with a strong focus on the transition towards circularity. This commitment is evident in a wave of upcoming and recently established policies designed to foster sustainability, enhance competitiveness, and accelerate decarbonisation.
If you are curious on how the current and forthcoming EU policy landscape looks like and which implications it may have for your business, then join us for our upcoming nova Session: Policy Update on Circular Economy for the Chemical and Material Sector
In this two hours we will delve into the key legislative developments and strategic directions shaping the future of the industry. Our expert team will provide a comprehensive overview and insightful analysis of crucial topics, including:
Topics

The EU Competitiveness Compass
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)
The Clean Industrial Deal
Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act
The Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Act
The Upcoming Bioeconomy Strategy
The Circular Economy Act

This session is designed to provide you with a clear understanding of these interconnected policies and their potential impact on your strategies and operations.
We look forward to helping you navigate the evolving policy landscape and unlock the opportunities presented by Europe’s transition towards a circular and sustainable future for the chemicals and materials industries.
Programme (all CET):

13:00
Welcome and introduction
Luciano Proto Cassina

13:15
The EU Competitiveness Compass and the role of the Chemicals and Materials Sector in contributing to the European Green Deal objectives.
Luciano Proto Cassina

13:30
The Clean Industrial Deal and the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act
Kaj Seeger

13:55
Preparing for the ESPR – VAUDE’s experience
René Bethmann, VAUDE

14:20
The upcoming Bioeconomy Strategy and the Circular Economy Act
Luciano Proto Cassina

14:45
Closing Remarks and Wrap up
Kaj Seeger

Free Webinar: Solar-driven Pyrolysis of Biomass: Insights, Experiences and Challenges
2025-06-26 13:00 - 15:00
Free Webinar: Solar-driven Pyrolysis of Biomass: Insights, Experiences and Challenges

Date: 26 June 2025, Time: 13:00-15:00 CET, Location: Online
Discover how concentrated solar power and biomass pyrolysis are shaping the future of renewable materials production and energy generation!
The EU-funded research project PYSOLO (PYrolysis of biomass by concentrated SOLar pOwer) is developing a groundbreaking process that uses concentrated solar power to convert biomass into valuable products such as bio-oil, biochar, and pyrogas. The goal: combining defossilisation with decarbonisation in order to maximise output while minimising CO₂ emissions.
In a free webinar for students and early-career scientists on 26 June 2025 (13:00-15:00 CET), five experts from the project will provide insights into their current work and latest results.
Agenda:

Marco Binotti (Project coordinator, Politecnico di Milano): Introduction to PYSOLO
Giacomo Lombardi (RE-CORD) & José Manuel López (Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)): Pyrolysis technologies
Martina Neises (German Aerospace Center (DLR) – Institute for Future Fuels): Concentrating Solar Technologies for Biomass Treatment
José Manuel López (Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)): From Pyrolysis to Analysis: Techniques for Understanding the Products
Erico Kutchartt (Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia (CTFC)): Assessing agricultural and forest biomass to supply pyrolysis plants in Southern Europe using Earth observation data.

After each presentation there will be a 5-minutes-Q&A session and a panel discussion at the end of the webinar. This webinar is especially designed for students and early-career researchers in the fields of:

Renewable Energy
Chemical and Process Engineering
Environmental Sciences
Bioeconomy

And all interested supporters of the project.
Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yl9hEhscTxywcY1fX0LAyw
Learn more about PYSOLO: https://pysolo.eu
Would you like to be informed about upcoming stakeholder events in the project? Stakeholder
Registration: https://pysolo.eu/stakeholder-registration

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

3-CO-Webinar "Creating Impact: Social Innovation in the EU-BioEconomy – What policymakers can do"
2025-07-10 13:00 - 14:30
10 July 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM CET, online

This upcoming webinar by the EU funded 3-CO project will showcase good practice examples of social innovation from all across Europe and beyond to inspire sustainable change and present policy recommendations on how to support and scale such initiatives. .
Social innovation is increasingly recognised as a vital force for addressing most pressing societal challenges of modern societies, ranging from climate change and resource scarcity to social exclusion and health issues. At their core, social innovations introduce new ideas to solve problems, be it products, services, or models. These can meet social needs more effectively than existing solutions. These innovations are social in their ends or means, and they thrive through collaboration, whether in social enterprises, corporate projects, non-profits, public sector programs, or grassroots community initiatives.
Social Innovation for Sustainable Change
The European Research Project 3-CO (Concise Consumer Communication through Robust Labels for Biobased Systems) is committed to supporting consumers and stakeholders in making more sustainable and environmentally responsible choices. Beyond its efforts to improve consumer communication and labelling, 3-CO actively aims to implement and promote social innovation practices that empower citizens, businesses, and actors in the public sector to adopt responsible behaviours.
On July 10th 2025, from 13:00 to 14:30 CEST, 3-CO will host a dedicated webinar on social innovation. This event will present a new brochure of 17 social innovation case studies that brings together a wide variety of good practice examples from across Europe and beyond. The brochure is designed to inform, inspire, and guide policymakers, civil society organisations, private businesses, and citizens, demonstrating that everyone has a role to play in adopting and supporting social innovations. The project further developed and recently published a policy paper that aims to foster social innovation. The included recommendations for policy makers will be presented in the webinar.
Two social innovations holders will discuss challenges of setting and scaling up their initiatives and evaluate the generated societal and environmental change.
17 Case studies
The brochure features 17 real-world examples such as a “library of things” that encourages borrowing instead of buying, reduces waste and strengthens community bonds. Other cases include a clothing swap platform, community gardens, digital food sharing solutions, or a recycling support app. Each case illustrates how innovative approaches can simultaneously meet social needs, foster new relationships, and promote sustainable consumption patterns.
The brochure, and the upcoming webinar, aim to show how social innovations can be replicated and adapted in other countries and contexts, offering policy recommendations and governance models to help establish these solutions.
Participants of the webinar will gain insight into how social innovation can be a catalyst for sustainability, discover inspiring examples, and learn about policy measures that can support similar initiatives in their own communities or organisations. This is an opportunity to engage with leading thinkers and practitioners, and become part of a movement that is shaping a more responsible and sustainable future for the whole society.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_P8qUxMnkQRm9mn9ZdcPuFg

Further information:
3-CO (https://3co-project.eu)

BioReCer - Final Multi-Stakeholder annual online meeting
2025-09-11 14:00 - 16:00
11 September, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:0 PM CEST, online

Join us for the final BioReCer Annual Stakeholders Meeting to explore the key outcomes of the project and discover how digital tools can support transparent and trusted certification schemes in the bio-based sector. The session will include a presentation of project highlights, a live demonstration of the BIT Tool, and an interactive roundtable with diverse stakeholders to validate the tool and gather feedback. As the BioReCer project nears completion, this final forum offers an opportunity to reflect on its main achievements and test the digital BIT Tool in action. Stakeholders from across the value chain—including consumers, certifiers, and industry — will join a roundtable to assess its usability, effectiveness, and future applications, with the audience invited to contribute via live feedback.
Moderation: Dusica Banduka, nova-institute
14:00 – 14:30 BioReCer Progress Update Presenter: Lucia Gonzalez, CETAQUA
14:30 -14:50 BioReCer ICT tool (BIT) Presenter: Romain Magnani EGM, (last presentation)
14:50 – 15:30 Roundtable discussion
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lP06EuYaQ0arvrof5ZnEAw

Further information:
BioReCer (https://biorecer.eu)
BioReCer will develop the BioReCer ICT tool (BIT), an automated assessment tool that collects and transmits real-time data on the environmental performance of bio-based value chains promoting environmentally conscious decisions and sustainable practices in the bioeconomy.

The 3-CO Final Event: Empowering Bio-Based Choices Through Smart Certification
2025-10-21 09:00 - 13:30
21 October 2025, from 9:00 to 13:30 CET, online

Many of the products consumers purchase display eco-labels and are wrapped in promises of sustainability, bio-based content, or fair and ethical production conditions. The messages and criteria behind these labels and certification schemes often remain unclear. To simplify and decode these messages, the EU-funded research project 3-CO (Concise Consumer Communication through Robust Labels for Biobased Systems) focuses on improving how certification schemes and eco-labels communicate with consumers. By developing smart label design guidelines, digital support tools, and implementing social innovation strategies, the project addressed the challenges of transparency, trust, and consumer engagement, especially with regard to bio-based products. At its final online-event, 3-CO will showcase the project’s significant advances in consumer communication through investigating and implementing consumer perspectives and attitudes.
Taking place virtually on 21 October 2025 from 9:00 to 13:00 CEST, the event brings together international experts in certification, industry professionals, policy makers, researchers, (social) innovators, and stakeholders committed to driving a green transition of the EU’s bioeconomy and society at large.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sGB9lEzvTRq-E6Q3-K1_vw#/registration
Certification and sustainability
In four sessions, the final 3-CO event will showcase panel discussions, expert presentations, case studies and best practise examples.

Session 1 (9:00 – 10:00): Certification and Labelling
This session kicks off the programme by highlighting how smart certification and clear labelling can enhance consumer trust in bio-based products. Expert presentations by Margaux Le Gallou (ECOS) and Loha Hashimi (ENIDE) will evaluate the role of label and certification schemes in consumer choices, put EU-eco-labels through a reality check, and introduce how the developed 3-CO-app helps consumers decode label-information and identify sustainable products.
Speaker:

Martin Junginger (Utrecht University)
Margaux Le Gallou (ECOS)
Philippe DeWolfs (TÜV Austria)
Loha Hashimi (ENIDE)

Session 2 (10:00-11:00): Social Innovation
This session delves into the transformative potential of social innovation and includes recommendations for implementation of social innovations in EU-policy and brand strategies, presented by Zoritza Kiresiewa (Ecologic Institute). Noemi de Santis and Andrea Mangone from the Junker-App will introduce a successful example of social innovation with their user-friendly app that supports consumers in correctly recycling their packaging waste.
Speaker:

John Vos (BTG)
Zoritza Kiresiewa (Ecologic Institut)
Florian Birk (SIGU Plattform)
Noemi De Santis (Junger App)

Session 3 (11:30-12:30): Policy
Putting the crucial role of policy frameworks at centre, this session explores the impact of policy and market instruments in establishing effective certification and scaling certified bio-based solutions. Kaj Seger (nova-Institute) will present the label design guidelines developed in the 3-CO project. Policy representatives will provide insights into how certification can be integrated with public procurement and regulatory strategies to foster sustainable consumption.
Speaker:

Luciano Proto Cassina (nova-Institute)
Margaux Le Gallou (ECOS)
Kaj Seeger (nova-Institute)
Jiannis Kougoulis (European Commission)

Session 4 (12:30 – 13:30): Consumer Perspective
This session presents the latest research on how consumers perceive and respond to bio-based products and what concerns they voice towards certification and labelling. Agnieszka Wiśniewska (University of Warsaw) will share key behavioural insights, while representatives from consumer associations will discuss communication strategies that enhance transparency, build trust, and ultimately promote sustainable purchasing choices.
Speaker:

Maira Devisscher (ISEAL)
Agnieszka Wiśniewska (University of Warsaw)
Mariano Votta (Active Citizenship Network)
Perspectives of certified brands (tbc.)

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sGB9lEzvTRq-E6Q3-K1_vw#/registration

Further information:
3-CO (https://3co-project.eu)

BioReCer Final Event: Trust, Traceability, and Certification – Valorising Biological Feedstocks
2025-10-29 09:00 - 15:00
29 October, 2025, from 9:00 – 15:00 CEST, only on site in Santiago de Compostela

Ciudad de la Cultura, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
On 29 October 2025, the BioReCer project invites stakeholder from the bio-based industries, research, certification and standardisation, and (consumer) organisations to its final event at the Ciudad de la Cultura in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Scheduled from 9:00 to 14:45 CET, this occasion marks the conclusion of the EU‑funded project, which over three years has worked intensely to improve the trust, traceability, and certification of biological feedstocks.
The BioReCer (Biological Resources Certifications Schemes) project has developed a framework for assessing the sustainability and circularity of biological resources, identified indicators of circularity, as well as guidelines for integrating these into established certification schemes. In addition, a Standardisation Toolkit was developed, which is a comprehensive online database designed to support professionals in the bio-based industry, as well as recommendations for the valorisation and use of biological feedstock propose integration of BioReCer findings into policy.
Register here: https://novainstitute.aidaform.com/BioReCerFinalEvent
One key-outcome is the BioReCer ICT Tool (BIT). This digital app provides tracking and traceability information of bio-based solutions and feedstocks along the entire bio‑based value chain. By providing product information and assessing circularity indicators the BIT aims to improve decision-making through real-time data and actionable insights, but also to enhance sustainability through assessment and improved environmental performance. The tool further offers a self‑assessment function that enables companies to evaluate their own enterprise with regard to sustainability and circularity criteria, enabling evaluation on whether a company is fit for certification and what levers exist to achieve a higher certification.
The BioReCer project has validated its approach in four case studies on biological waste and residues, including agriculture (Greece), fishery (Spain), municipal organic waste and wastewater (Italy) and forestry (Sweden), assessing material flows, and replicability and transferability across these sectors.
In various presentations BioReCer partners will showcase key results, explain the sustainability and circularity framework (University of Santiago de Compostela), discuss circularity indicators (Imperial College London), and explain how this framework can be integrated into certification schemes (Meo Carbon Solutions). A live demonstration of the BioReCer ICT Tool (EGM) will showcase its functions supporting product traceability, self‑assessment, and certification data management.
A second block of the event will feature two moderated round tables. The first expert round will focus on sustainability and circularity assessments in the bio‑based industry, drawing on lessons from BioReCer’s case studies and contributions from related projects. The second roundtable will address the future valorisation of biological feedstocks with insights from several other EU-projects.
An exposition corner will provide space to discover BioReCer and its related EU-projects, explore project results, and materials, and to speak directly with the members of the different projects.
This final event is open to stakeholders from industry, research, certification, policy makers and (consumer) organisations who want to gain first‑hand understanding of BioReCer’s tools and methods, and their relevance for creating transparent, impactful certification for biological feedstocks. Find the Preliminary agenda here.
Register here: https://novainstitute.aidaform.com/BioReCerFinalEvent

Further information:
BioReCer (https://biorecer.eu)
BioReCer will develop the BioReCer ICT tool (BIT), an automated assessment tool that collects and transmits real-time data on the environmental performance of bio-based value chains promoting environmentally conscious decisions and sustainable practices in the bioeconomy.

nova talk: Next Generation Cellulose Fibre – Lyocell 2.0
2025-11-13 13:00 - 14:30
nova talk: Next Generation Cellulose Fibre – Lyocell 2.0

Sustainability and Circularity in Innovative Textiles
13 November, 13:00 – 14:30h CET (online) – free of charge
Register here!
Lyocell, a material made from cellulose, is gaining strong attention in the textile industry for its strength, softness, and sustainable production. As the textile industry increasingly prioritises circularity and sustainability, Lyocell 2.0 offers promising solutions through balanced high-quality performance combined with environmental responsibility, while also standing out for its recyclability and versatility.
On 13 November 2025, 13:00-14:30 CEST, nova-Institute will host the first ever nova talk — an interactive online-discussion format offering in-depth discussions on cellulose fibre innovation. This event will bring together internationally recognised experts Asta Partanen (nova-Institute), Philipp Köhler (Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research Rudolstadt e.V. – TITK), and Manuel Steiner (LIST Technology AG) to explore next generation cellulose fibres from multiple perspectives.
As current EU directives for textiles are focussing on circularity and sustainability in textile fibres, the discussion will offer an overview of different fibre-to-fibre recycling methods as well as market figures and technology data. A special focus is set on one of the most growing textile fibres: Lyocell. Other key topics will include the emerging use of ionic liquids in Lyocell production, a comparison of chemical and mechanical fibre recycling, and how Lyocell compares with viscose in terms of recyclability and circularity. The panel will also cover technical advances in re-pulping cellulose to regenerate full Lyocell fibres, current trends, and international highlights.
This event is generously sponsored by LIST Technology AG. Based in Switzerland, List Technology AG is the leading technology provider for highly viscous and phase-changing industrial processes based on KneadingReactors, such as dissolution processes for spinning solutions, and inventor of the Lyocell 2.0 technology. LIST’s support highlights the importance of sustainable materials research in driving the textile industry’s future.
The TITK – Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research Rudolstadt e.V. is among the leading private institutes for polymer-based functional and engineering materials. With a modern technology park, it has recently advanced textile recycling, presenting at the World Expo in Japan the first polo shirt made from triple‑recycled cellulose fibre. The fibre, Lyohemp®, is TITK’s innovation and the first Lyocell made from hemp pulp.
nova talks embraces active audience participation through live Q&A, creating a dynamic dialogue to deepen understanding of next-generation Lyocell and its role in advancing sustainable textile value chains, but also offering a rare opportunity to engage directly with top experts shaping circular and sustainable textile innovation.
Join this session to gain a comprehensive understanding of how Lyocell helps building a truly circular textile economy.
To become part of the discussion, register here for free.
You want to put your own topic on the agenda and initiate your own nova talk? Find options and conditions in the nova talk flyer or get in touch via guido.mueller@nova-institut.de to learn more about the format.

Free RCI-nova-Webinar: Increased Methane Emissions in Crude Oil and Natural Gas Supply
2025-11-13 14:00 - 15:00
13 November, 2025, from 14:00 – 15:00 CEST, online only
Upcoming RCI-webinar about underestimated methane emissions and their impact on carbon footprints of fossil and renewable feedstocks
The Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI, https://renewable-carbon-initiative.com) invites industry and policy stakeholders to a free public webinar on their latest report ‘Increased Methane Emissions in Crude Oil & Natural Gas Supply’
The webinar, hosted by nova-Institute, will give an overview about the main findings of the RCI-report, highlighting that recent updates in life cycle inventory (LCI) databases have now incorporated a previously undiscovered, significant underestimation of methane emissions in crude oil and natural gas supply chains due to venting, flaring and leaks. It will demonstrate that these methane losses have a direct impact on the calculated carbon footprints of fossil feedstocks and the many materials derived from them.
The webinar will demonstrate that bio-based polymers such as bio-PE, renewable PP, or bio-MEG, now show an even stronger climate advantage compared to their fossil counterparts, reinforcing the role of renewable carbon in supporting defossilisation and climate goals.
Finally, it will briefly touch on a few conclusions and recommendations for the future, including implications for emerging technologies, maintained regular database updates, expanded emissions tracking, and harmonisation.
The public RCI webinar will take place on 13 November 2025, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CET
Speaker: Dr. Ángel Puente from nova-Institute, main author of the report
Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_a5SbBdA1TmaC4Lv8VfjKNw#/

ADVANCED RECYCLING CONFERENCE 2025 (ARC)
2025-11-19 - 2025-11-20 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
Discover the cutting-edge advancements in recycling technology at our upcoming Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC) 2025! Join industry leaders, innovators, policy makers and enthusiasts as we delve into a comprehensive exploration of advanced recycling solutions and related topics.
This unique event covers all — extrusion, dissolution, enzymolysis, solvolysis, pyrolysis, thermal depolymerisation, gasification with Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU), pre-and post-treatment technologies as well as digital solutions. Dive deep into discussions about ambitious EU recycling targets, the commitments of the chemical industry and brands, and the evolving demands of customers and investors driving the recycling sector forward.
Further information: https://advanced-recycling.eu

FREE nova Session: Latest nova Market and Trend Reports on Advanced Recycling, Mass Balance and Attribution (MBA), Bio-based Polymers and Alternative Naphtha
2025-12-08 14:00 - 15:30
nova Session: Latest nova Market and Trend Reports on Alternative Naphtha, Advanced Recycling, Bio-based Polymers and Bioeconomy in China
Hosts: Michael Carus, Lars Krause, Pia Skoczinski, Gillian Tweddle (all nova-institute)
8 December from 14:00 to 15:30h CET (online) – free of charge
In this upcoming nova Session, a free webinar, the latest insights from four key reports that are shaping the future of renewable carbon economy, will be presented. The focus will be on the defossilisation of the chemical industry and fossil-free plastics.
In this session, nova’s best experts will explore ground-breaking developments in advanced plastic waste recycling, mass balance and attribution (MBA), bio-based building blocks and polymers and alternative naphtha. Each report examines emerging trends, global capacity and market dynamics that are driving the transition to a defossilised, net-zero chemical industry.
Join us for an engaging discussion with the authors and industry experts for a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities in these rapidly evolving sectors.
These four reports will be presented, offering in-depth analyses on alternative naphtha, bio-based building blocks and polymers, advanced recycling, and mass balance and attribution (MBA):
NEW: Mapping of Global Advanced Plastic Recycling Capacities
The development of advanced recycling technologies is very dynamic and at a fast pace, with new players constantly appearing on the market, from start-ups to chemistry giants and everything in between. New plants are being built, and new capacities are being achieved. Due to these dynamic developments, it is difficult to keep track of everything. The nova report “Mapping of global advanced plastic recycling capacities” aims to clear up this jungle of information. A comprehensive evaluation of the global input and output capacities was carried out for which 390 planned as well as installed and operating plants including their specific product yields were mapped to provide an overview about global advanced recycling capacities in the past, present, and future.
NEW: Mainstreaming Mass Balance and Attribution (MBA)
The acceptance and accessibility of mass balanced attributed (MBA) chemicals, building blocks and polymers is a major issue for the chemical and plastics sectors, as well as for brand owners. MBA products could provide more options, better availability and reduced costs for the defossilisation compared to dedicated bio-based solutions.
However, both the MBA concept and the political regulations are crucial for scaling up, but difficult to understand. Furthermore, discussions about potentially misleading communication on the concept are confusing stakeholders. In addition, no production volumes are available.
Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029
2024 was a respectable year for bio-based polymers, with an overall expected CAGR of 13 % to 2029. Overall, bio-based biodegradable polymers have large installed capacities with an expected CAGR of 17 % to 2029, but the current average capacity utilisation is moderate at 65 %. In contrast, bio-based non-biodegradable polymers have a much higher utilisation rate of 90 %, but will only grow by 10 % to 2029.
Epoxy resin and PUR production is growing moderately at 9 and 8 %, respectively, while PP and cyclic APC capacities are increasing by 30 %. Despite a decline in production of biodegradables, especially for PLA in Asia, capacities have increased by 40 %. The same applies to PHA capacities. Commercial newcomers such as casein polymers and PEF recorded a rise in production capacity and are expected to continue to grow significantly until 2029.
Alternative Naphtha – Technologies and Market, Status and Outlook
This report examines how the chemical industry can move away from fossil-based naphtha. It looks at the pathways to naphtha from different renewable carbon sources – CO₂, biomass and recycling – and how these alternatives can be integrated into existing refinery and steam cracker operations. The presentation will cover technologies, market dynamics, industry players and projected capacities that are essential to enable this transition to renewable carbon, which is a critical step towards a defossilised chemical industry.
Each report will be presented by the lead author for approximately 15 minutes, with key findings, followed by a discussion.
Join us for an engaging discussion with the authors and industry experts for a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities in these rapidly evolving sectors.
Program

14:00–14:05 Michael Carus, nova-Institute: Welcome, introduction and moderation
14:05-14:25 Lars Krause, nova-Institute: Mapping of Global Advanced Plastic Recycling Capacities, presentation and discussion
14:25-14:45 Michael Carus, nova-Institute: Mainstreaming Mass Balance and Attribution (MBA)
14:45–15:05 Pia Skoczinski, nova-Institute: Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2024–2029, presentation and discussion
15:05-15:25 Gillian Tweddle, nova-Institute: Alternative Naphtha – Technologies and Market, Status and Outlook, presentation and discussion
15:25–15:30 Michael Carus, nova-Institute: Wrap-up and final discussion

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wmDIB2vwSYKgLl14hgdIog

AI Circular Economy Conference 2026
2026-03-04 - 2026-03-05 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
Unlocking the Potential of Renewable Carbon from Biomass, CCU and Recycling.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a technological trend; it is a transformative force that is accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable carbon sources in the chemical and materials industry. This represents one of the greatest industrial challenges since the beginning of the industrial revolution, requiring the most advanced digital solutions available. AI is emerging as the key enabler of this transformation.
nova-Institute proudly presents its new highlight event, bringing together the best innovators, researchers, and practitioners of this fundamental digital transformation of our society: The AI Circular Economy Conference, 4-5 March, 2026 in Cologne and online. Join us at this groundbreaking conference to explore how advanced AI tools and applications are shaping the future of circular and sustainable materials by unlocking the full potential of renewable carbon from biomass, carbon capture utilisation (CCU), and recycling:

High-tech innovators are delivering cutting-edge AI solutions for science and industry.
Chemical and plastics producers are using AI to innovate more quickly, efficiently, and sustainably.
The agricultural and biomass sectors are using AI to identify new sources of raw materials and close the loop on material flows.
Cutting-edge applications of AI, including AI-assisted modelling of CCU processes and catalysts, optimisation of CO₂ capture, and the design of novel chemical pathways such as those involving electrochemistry.
Use of AI for process control and optimisation in depolymerisation, advanced waste stream sorting and feedstock analysis, as well as quality assurance of recycled materials.

Featuring top experts in AI development, chemical and plastics manufacturing, biotechnology, agriculture, recycling and sustainability, this interdisciplinary event will explore the latest developments in the field. Whether you are a data scientist working on new industrial applications, a materials professional seeking for practical tools, or part of the management or investment community looking to understand strategic and financial opportunities, this conference will provide you with actionable insights, valuable use cases and collaborative opportunities. The “AI Circular Economy Conference” will bring together all relevant stakeholders to discuss the need for AI solutions in a circular economy in the chemistry and materials sector and to match these needs with technical solutions from scientists and developers.
Further information at https://ai-circulareconomy.eu

CO2-based Fuels and Chemicals Conference 2026
2026-04-28 - 2026-04-29 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
The CO2-based Fuels and Chemicals Conference has successfully established itself as an international and unique meeting and networking ground for the entire Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) and Power-to-X industry and its customers. The upcoming 13th edition of the conference will take place on 28–29 April 2026, Cologne, Germany as a hybrid event. Organiser nova-Institute expects over 250 leading international experts in the field of CCU, green hydrogen production and Power-to-X. Once more the event will showcase the latest innovations and most important developments in the fast-growing field of Carbon Capture and Utilisation with plenty of opportunities to network.
Further information at: https://co2-chemistry.eu

Renewable Materials Conference
2026-09-22 - 2026-09-24 | Rhein Sieg Forum, Bachstraße 1, Siegburg, 53721, Germany
What will the future of the chemical industry look like?
A wide range of concepts and technologies will be addressed at the conference: circularity, renewable refineries, and chemical recycling as well as new process technologies. Technologies to produce more sustainable chemicals, building blocks, polymers, plastics and fine chemicals based on renewable carbon: recycling, biomass or CO2. Up-to-date information on new innovations, markets, sustainability and political framework provide a comprehensive picture of possible future developments. One highlight is the Innovation Award: after six pre-selected presentations, the audience will vote on the “Renewable Material of the Year 2026”.
Further information: https://renewable-materials.eu
