Renewable Carbon Events

BioReCer- and 3-CO-Webinar: Certification and Innovation in Bio-Based Construction
2025-02-25 13:00 - 15:00 (Europe/Berlin)
5 February 2025, 13:00-14:30 CET, online
The construction sector is one of the most significant contributors to global CO₂ emissions, accounting for approximately 37 % of energy- and processing-related carbon dioxide emissions worldwide (UNEP, 2022). It further accounts for about 50% of all extracted materials (EC, 2025). As the building industry seeks to reduce its environmental impact, bio-based materials are emerging as a promising solution for more sustainable construction.
Certification plays a critical role in this transformation, providing a robust framework for validating the sustainability performance and attesting to the environmental credentials of these innovative bio-based materials. To address this critical issue and explore innovative approaches, the EU-funded research projects 3-CO and BioReCer are organising a comprehensive webinar on certification and innovation in bio-based construction materials.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Construction
This informative event, scheduled for 25 February 2025, at 13:00 CEST, will explore the entire range of bio-based construction materials and their diverse applications. The webinar will cover crucial aspects of sustainable building, including:

The importance of certification for bio-based products,
Sustainable building design, conception, and planning,
Material recommendations,
Building passports as tools for capturing and communicating building data, material composition, and environmental performance,
Circularity indicators and their role in assessing a building’s sustainability, including the new ISO 59040 standard for Product Circularity Data Sheets, which emphasises circular concepts such as design for disassembly.
Different assessment methods for sustainability of buildings and for constructions, including the Quality Seal for Sustainable Buildings (QNG), e.g., CO2-footprint for buildings.

Expert perspective on innovation
The webinar brings together a distinguished panel of experts from certification bodies, public institutions, and innovative producers:

Martin Behrens (Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR))
Sergiy Kovalenco (CEO and Founder of Hempire)
Hein van Tuijl (EPEA Benelux)

These will share their extensive knowledge on material innovation, certification processes, and the political environment that shapes sustainable construction.

Environmental benefits of bio-based materials
Bio-based materials significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions in construction and its defossiliation. For example, wood-based structures act as carbon sinks by storing CO₂ throughout their lifecycle. Similarly, hemp insulation provides excellent thermal performance with a lower environmental footprint compared to conventional materials.
This webinar serves as a platform for fostering collaborative change within the construction sector. By connecting diverse stakeholders from innovative material producers to forward-thinking municipalities, from certification experts to architectural visionaries, the research projects 3-CO and BioReCer aim to facilitate meaningful discussions that can lead to actionable solutions for sustainable building practices.
Join the conversion on 25 February 2025, at 13:00 CEST.
Register here!

BioReCer- and 3-CO-Webinar: Labels and certification for bio-based products: Counteracting greenwashing and increasing consumer trust
2024-12-13 12:00 - 13:00
13 December 2024, 12:00 to 13:00 CET, online
The second episode of the certification webinar series by the Horizon Europe projects BioReCer and 3-CO will tackle two intertwined topics:
DIN CERTCO will give an introduction into certification in general and especially bio-based certification. Both bio-based and general certifications play a vital role in fostering innovation, ensuring product integrity. Furthermore, bio-based certification is a crucial process that verifies the bio-based carbon content of products and materials. Here, certification promotes the use of renewable resources and provides transparency and trust for consumers and businesses.
The presentation by ECOS picks up on labelling and certification schemes for bio-based products, and will present the variables determining consumer trust and thus shaping consumer behaviour. These variables include sustainability criteria, label design, the level of familiarity with labels by consumers and much more.
The 3-CO and BioReCer team kindly welcomes the following speakers:

Berit Topolinski (DIN CERTCO, the certification body of TÜV Rheinland Group)
Margaux Le Gallou (ECOS – Environmental Coalition on Standards)

Together, we will explore their innovative new LCS that will support shaping a strong circular EU (bio)economy.
Registrater here!

FREE nova Session: Latest nova Market and Trend Reports on Alternative Naphtha, Advanced Recycling, Bio-based Polymers and Bioeconomy in China
2024-11-28 13:30 - 15:00
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, Ann Zhang (all nova-institute)
28 November from 13:30 to 15:00h 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 bio-based building blocks and polymers, alternative naphtha, biodegradable plastics in China and advanced plastic waste recycling. Each report examines emerging trends, global capacity and market dynamics that are driving the transition to a defossilised, net-zero chemical industry.
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.
Mapping of Advanced Plastic Waste Recycling Technologies and their Global Capacities
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth look at the rapidly evolving landscape of advanced plastics recycling technologies, where new players and partnerships continue to emerge. For the first time, the report provides a global analysis of recycling capacity, mapping more than 340 operational and planned facilities and profiling more than 120 technology providers – nearly doubling the number included in the previous edition: An overview of the latest technologies, global input and output capacities, and market insights that clarify this complex and dynamic sector, especially for those familiar with the field and seeking the latest developments.
Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2023–2028
This comprehensive overview of the 17 commercially available bio-based polymers provides an in-depth look at recent developments and growth trends. In 2023, notable capacity expansions include a nearly 50% increase in PLA and steady growth in polyamide and epoxy resin production, as well as expanded capacity for 100% bio-based PE. While bio-based PET will decline significantly, other materials such as PE and PP derived from bio-based naphtha will gain traction. The presentation will provide an in-depth look at these shifts and expected trends through 2028, mapping the evolution of this dynamically and fast growing market (CAGR 17%).
Bio-based and Biodegradable Plastics Industries in China
Is China leading the global bioeconomy? This report examines China’s rapid advances in bio-based technologies and their impact on the global chemical industry. It explores how China is promoting bio-based and biodegradable plastics, setting the stage for a potential net-zero chemical industry by 2060. The presentation will cover the state of the industry in China, market dynamics and areas where European and Chinese industries could find collaborative and mutually beneficial ways to develop this promising sector.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the critical shifts happening in the bio-based and sustainable chemical industries.
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
13:30–13:35 Welcome, introduction and moderation
(Michael Carus, nova-Institute)
13:35–13:55 Alternative Naphtha – Technologies and Market, Status and Outlook
(Gillian Tweddle, nova-Institute)
13:55–14:15 Mapping of Advanced Plastic Waste Recycling Technologies and their Global Capacities, presentation and discussion
(Lars Krause, nova-Institute)
14:15–14:35 Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2023–2028, presentation and discussion
(Pia Skoczinski, nova-Institute)
14:35–14:55 Bio-based and Biodegradable Plastics Industries in China, presentation and discussion
(Ann Zhang, nova-Institute)
14:55–15:00 Wrap-up and final discussion
(Michael Carus, all nova-institute)

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BXeSp_arRJaT12_7e3lqbQ

nova Session: Challenges and Developments in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) (online)
2024-11-06 14:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-challenges-and-developments-in-life-cycle-assessment-lca-online/
nova Session: Challenges and Developments in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) (online)
Hosts: Dr. Matthias Stratmann, Ferdinand Kähler, Niels de Beus, and Dr. Ángel Puente (all nova-Institute)
14:00 – 16:00 h (CET), online
In this upcoming nova-Session (6 November 2024, 14-16h, CET), we will provide not only a general introduction to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) but also dive in the complexities and challenges surrounding its application. As LCA becomes an essential tool for evaluating the environmental impacts of products and processes, procurement and sustainability professionals must understand how varying standards and data quality influence outcomes.
This session will explore specifically the use of supplier-specific data in LCAs, but also Scope 3 emissions. We will present real-world examples demonstrating how standards affect results, alongside best practices for ensuring high-quality and reliable LCA data. Special attention will be given to the role of renewable feedstocks, Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU), mass balance approaches, and electricity sourcing, all of which significantly shape LCA results.
Participants will gain practical knowledge on navigating the complexities of LCA standards, ensuring data consistency, and leveraging supplier data to make informed decisions. This session is tailored for professionals looking to enhance their sustainability strategies and reduce their carbon footprints through informed LCA practices.

Topics:

Introduction to LCA: Importance for procurement and sustainability
Supplier-specific data
Impact of different LCA standards on results
Data quality
Key factors influencing LCA: Renewable feedstocks, CCU, mass balance, and electricity sourcing
Practical case study from industry

Program:
14:00–14:10 Welcome and Tour de Table, Dr. Matthias Stratmann, nova-Institute
14:10–14:30 Introduction to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Dr. Matthias Stratmann, nova-Institute

Overview of LCA and its importance for sustainability and procurement
Role of supplier-specific data in LCA
Current industry efforts to facilitate data sharing

14:30–14:40 Industry Perspective, Nushin Behzadifar, FKuR Kunststoff

View from Industry: Problems, Current Demands, Challenges

14:40–15:00 Different Standards, Different Results (CASE STUDY 1), Ferdinand Kähler, nova-Institute

How different LCA methods impact LCA results
Case examples: Comparing outcomes from different standards

15:00–15:20 Quality of LCA Data (CASE STUDY 2), Niels de Beus, nova-Institute

Criteria for high-quality and reliable data
Best practices for ensuring consistent LCA assessments
From hot-spot analysis to peer-reviewed data

15:20–15:40 Main Levers in Renewable Feedstocks, Dr. Ángel Puente, nova-Institute

System boundaries in LCA
The role of Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU)
Mass balance
The impact of electricity sourcing on LCA outcomes

15:40–16:00 Discussion & wrap-up, Dr. Matthias Stratmann, nova-Institute
This session offers valuable insights for professionals in procurement, sustainability, and supply chain management, equipping them with knowledge on how to navigate the evolving landscape of LCA.

BioReCer- and 3-CO-Webinar: Potential and challenges of certification, and development of new labels
2024-11-05 11:30 - 12:30
5 November 2024, 11:30 to 12:30 CET, online
Are you a member of the (bio-based) industry, a label and certification schemes holder, a policy maker or part of a consumer association? Then participate in the first joined webinar by the Horizon Europe projects 3-CO and BioReCer on November 5th 2024, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm (CET). The webinar will address the vital topic of new certifications and labels for the renewable, and especially bio-based, economy.
Certification and labelling play a crucial role in empowering consumers to make informed and sustainable purchasing decisions by impeding greenwashing and instead providing credible and reliable sustainability information. Furthermore, they facilitate the tracking and traceability of biological and other renewable feedstock throughout value chains, fostering transparency and accountability among stakeholders of the industry. However, there are a lot of challenges for current certification and labelling schemes, since they are often not sufficiently laid-out for bio-based and other renewable products and their value-chains.
In this webinar, REDcert and TÜV AUSTRIA will show their sytems for sustainability certification and will present new or soon to be published label and certification schemes (LCS) that are relevant for the bio-based economy. The speakers will talk about challenges on the way to the final label, and which gaps will be closed.
Join us on November the 5th and listen to the two presentations by
Philippe Dewolfs (TÜV Austria) – From standardisation to communication – the role of a certification body
Simon Schwarzwald (REDcert) – Certification of sustainable products in the REDcert² scheme
Together, we will explore their innovative new LCS that will support shaping a strong circular EU (bio)economy.
Registrater here!

nova Session: Food and Feed Crops for Bio-based Materials – Facts, Myths, Availability and Policy (online)
2024-10-30 13:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-food-and-feed-crops-for-bio-based-materials/
nova-Session: Food and Feed Crops for Bio-based Materials – Facts, Myths, Availability and Policy
Hosts: Lara Dammer and Michael Carus (both nova-Institute)
13:00 – 16:00 h (CET), online
When discussing the green transition, there are conflicting views. On the one hand, it is considered fact that we need to move away from fossil feedstocks, also for chemicals and materials, and that bio-based materials will have to play an important role there. On the other hand, there are severe concerns about the overall availability of biomass and the competition to food and feed. There is a widely held view that the use of food and feed crops for anything other than food and feed uses is detrimental to food security. We are ready to challenge this perception and want to encourage differentiated discussions and evidence-based opinion making.
In this three-hour webinar, nova-Institute will present findings from latest research on the overall availability of biomass, now and until 2050. Furthermore, we will show that the impacts of using food and feed crops are much more complex than usually assumed and can even be positive, with regards to climate, land productivity, environment, farmers’ income, market stability, feed security and food security. Experts will also highlight the recent political framework for using biomass for biofuels and bio-based chemicals and materials. Two companies will showcase their ways of using sustainably sourced primary biomass.
Join our webinar for surprising insights and in-depth discussion of a hotly debated issue!

Topics:

Why bio-based materials have an important role to play for mitigating climate change
Global biomass availability
Overall environmental impacts and sustainability assessments
Economic effects
Protein supply and emergency reserves
Political framework
Practical examples of companies utilising sustainably sourced primary biomass

Program
13:00–13:10 Welcome and introduction
(Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)

13:10–14:00 Availability of agricultural and forest-based biomass now and in the future – new insights from recent research
(Michael Carus, nova-Institute)
14:00–14:30 The Use of Food and Feed Crops for Bio-based Materials and the Related Effects on Food Security – returning to a fact-based debate
(Michael Carus and Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)
14:30–14:45 Q&A
14:45–15:15 Status quo of policy on biomass uses and sustainability requirements
(Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)
15:15–15:45 Practical examples of sustainable bio-based materials from primary biomass
(Martin Clemesha, Braskem | Dr. Jens Angermann, CropEnergies)
15:45–16:00 Discussion & wrap-up

BioReCer: Italian Stakeholder Meeting
2024-10-02 09:30 - 14:00 | UNI premises, Via Sannio 2, Milan, 20137, Italy
Hybrid event, 2nd October 2024, 9:30 to 14:00 CET
Following the first two successful stakeholder events in Greece and Sweden, the Horizon Europe project BioReCer organises the next meeting in Milan, Italy on 2nd October 2024.
The BioReCer project aims at improving and fostering the certification of bio-based feedstock and value-chains. Since the development of guidelines for labelling and certification schemes and recommendations to policy makers is something that concerns many parties, stakeholder feedback is indispensable for the success of the project. Therefore, BioReCer invites experts and insiders of the bioeconomy, the bio-based industries, policy makers, consumer associations, waste(water) treatment facilities, etc. to participate in the next stakeholder meeting. While the first two meetings with the project’s dedicated BioResources Stakeholders Platform (BRSP) focused on bio-based value-chains from agriculture and forestry, the fourth meeting will add the topic of value of organic matter as feedstock from municipal waste and wastewater streams.
Join this upcoming event and bring in your opinions, views and insights on waste feedstock from forestry, agriculture, fishery and municipality to strengthen the EU bioeconomy. Support the project to improve current certification and labelling schemes for resources from biological waste and residues. Help to address relevant policy makers with recommendations for the use and valorisation of biological feedstock based on the experience of industry stakeholders.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮?

Get informed on the project’s latest developments.
Learn more about how to tackle challenges regarding certification and valorisation of biological waste feedstock.
Understand why biological waste is valuable and not a burden and how it can add to a sustainable industrial development.
Make your voice heard and actively contribute your insights and experience to cutting-edge EU research.
Extend your own network while discussing with BRSP members from industry, research and policy.
Be among the first to test an innovative digital tool that enables stakeholders an elaborate management of bio-resources.
Contribute to a project that fosters a sustainable EU, prioritising environment, society and economy.

Agenda:
Moderation and hosting: Dr. Anke Schwarzenberger (nova-Institute)

09:30 – 09:45 Arrival and welcome coffee
09:45 – 10:00 Cristina di Maria (UNI) – Introduction of the stakeholders
10:00 – 10:45 Alireza Mousavi (Imperial College Longon) and Annarita Colasante (UNITELMA) – Indicators and assessment framework for bio-based feedstock and waste + Product circularity data sheet

10:45 – 11:00 Coffee break
11:00 – 12:00 Romain Magnani and Franck Le Gall (EGM) – Introduction BioReCer Information Communication Technology Tool
12:00 – 12:45 Cristina Di Maria and Claudio Perissinotti (UNI) – Introduction standardization activities current and future and Toolkit

12:45 – 14:00 Lunch and networking session with stakeholders
14:00 – 15:00 Cristina Di Maria and Claudio Perissinotti (UNI) – Stakeholder training on standardization and Comité Européen de Normalisation (CEN) workshop agreement

Register here!
Learn more about the Italian Stakeholders Meeting (the agenda will follow soon): https://biorecer.eu
Get informed on the BRSP and register as a member: https://biorecer.eu/brsp
BioReCer (Biological Resources Certifications Schemes) aims at assessing and complementing current certification schemes for biological resources according to the new EU sustainability goals to enhance bio-based circular systems. This will be achieved by including new criteria that align with EU taxonomy and EU corporate due diligence regulations into guidelines for certifying biological resources’ sustainability, origin, tracking and traceability, and by ensuring applicability at EU and global scale. By promoting the sustainability and trade of biological resources, BioReCer will increase the added value, use and social acceptance of bio-based products.
Read more about BioReCer and register for the project newsletter: https://biorecer.eu
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 Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

nova Session: Mastering CSRD Compliance: Strategies for Effective Sustainability Reporting (online)
2024-09-26 14:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-mastering-csrd-compliance-strategies-for-effective-sustainability-reporting/
Hosts: Lara Dammer, Head of Economy & Policy and Dr. Matthias Stratmann, Head of Sustainability (both nova-Institute)
14:00-16:00 (CET)

Understanding the CSRD
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is an EU directive that aims to improve the transparency and comparability of corporate sustainability data. It requires companies to prepare and disclose detailed reports on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, including Scope 3 emissions.
Who will be affected by the CSRD and when?
The CSRD significantly extends the scope of sustainability reporting to a wider range of companies. Any company that meets at least two of the following criteria 250+ employees, €40m+ turnover or €20m+ total assets, will be required to comply. From 2024, the CSRD will apply to companies already subject to the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). By 2025, other large companies will be included and by 2026, listed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will also have to comply.
Are you ready for reporting? Get your ducks in a row now!
The two-hour webinar will cover the essentials of CSRD reporting, including the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), which outline nearly 1,200 data points. Participants will learn how to integrate sustainability data into management reports and understand the need for external assurance on all disclosed information. The webinar will focus on double materiality, which requires companies to assess both their impact on the environment and the environment’s impact on them. It will also highlight the importance of working with stakeholders such as employees, shareholders, customers and local authorities. Participants will learn how improved sustainability reporting can enhance a company’s credibility, trust and value, while providing insights for optimising long-term performance.
Topics:

Understanding the CSRD – background and objectives
Double Materiality
European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS)
Assessment methods (incl. LCA)
Effectively involving stakeholders
Data management
Optimising long-term performance

Program (all CET):
14:00-14:15 Welcome and introduction, Lara Dammer
14:15-14:35 Understanding the CSRD – Background, context, terminology, Q&A, Nicolas Hark
14:35-15:00 European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) – Overview and data points, assessment methods, Ferdinand Kähler
15:00-15:30 Double materiality assessment – strategy and stakeholder involvement, Q&A, Dr. Matthias Stratmann, Lara Dammer
15:30-15:45 CSRD reporting and verification, Lucas Wagner, TÜV SÜD Industrie Service GmbH
15:45-16:00 Final Q&A and wrap-up All

nova Session: Textile Recycling (online)
2024-09-17 13:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-textile-recycling/
Hosts: Dr. Asta Partanen and Dr. Lars Krause (both nova-Institute)
13:00-16:00 (CET), online

Fibre-to-fibre recycling in Europe is at a promising stage of development, driven by technological innovation, political support and growing consumer awareness. Nevertheless, further efforts are needed to overcome the existing challenges and make the recycling of textiles an integral part of the European circular economy.
The challenge of textile recycling is the frequent use of mixed fibres. New technologies for the production of new fibres e.g. from the cellulosic part of the textile waste offers a “fibre to fibre” solution for the industry in line with the EU textile strategy. Recycling of textiles into new fibres is an important factor to be promoted on a wider scale: using existing resources is a smart strategy. However, the textile industry currently uses less than 10% recycled fibres. New regulations from Brussels will increase the proportion of recycled fibres in textiles, and the necessary logistics and technologies must be in place to recycle textiles on a large scale. Inadequate regulation of textile waste management is a major factor contributing to the loss of much of this material through incineration. Another critical issue is the challenge of recycling textiles that have been mixed with other materials. This raises the question of what new and advanced technologies are available to process mixed textile waste.
Within the regulatory framework, the industry has to deal with tightening legislation that prohibits landfilling and incineration and instead promotes reuse and recycling. In addition, consumers have started to demand more sustainable products and value chains, so brand owners are also responding. This change also requires broad cooperation between all stakeholders in the textile value chain.
The nova session: textile recycling will present leading large-scale, state-of-the-art engineering and service solutions from Valmet (FI): Heli Kangas and Andritz (AT): Elina Pesonen. These technology practitioners will be complemented by chemical recycling expert Lars Krause from nova Institute, who is also the author of the chemical recycling study and project leader of the Advanced Recycling Conference. Another expert on textile recycling is from the leading Spanish research institute AIMPLAS: Mireia Fernandez Bazan, Prof. Dionisios Vlachos from University of Delaware (US) will shed light on the Chemical Recycling of Mixed Textiles.
The following program will provide enough time for the participants to discuss and ask their questions.
13:00 nova-Institute (DE): Dr. Asta Partanen – Welcome and Regulatory Framework
13:15 nova-Institute (DE): Dr. Lars Krause – Advanced Recycling for Textiles
13:40 Valmet (FI): Heli Kangas – Towards scale-up – Challenges and Opportunities for Industry in Cellulosic Textile Fiber Production and Recycling
14:05 – 14:15 Coffee break
14:15 Andritz (AT): Elina Pesonen – New Opportunities in the Circular Textile Ecosystem
14:40 Aimplas (SP): Mireia Fernandez Bazan – Complementarity of Recycling Technologies – Strategy to Achieve Comprehensive and Sustainable Recycling of Textile Waste
15:05 University of Delaware (US): Prof. Dionisios Vlachos – Chemical Recycling of Mixed Textiles
15:30 Plenary discussion and wrap up
16:00 End

NameCompany / OrganizationCityCountryAnna Lundahl Dal SantoIKEA of SwedenTygelsjöSwedenRaquel AlmeidaCaima, S.A.ConstânciaPortugalRuben DecosterFININDUSZwijnaardeBelgiumAmin KirollosQlar Europe GmbHDarmstadtGermanyDaniel KauteEvoralis LimitedOxfordUnited KingdomJulia JurasInnoenergyCracowPolandHolger FischerFaserinstitut Bremen e.V.BremenGermany

PERFECOAT-Workshop: Painting a Bio-based Future with PERFECOAT (online)
2024-08-27 13:00 - 15:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/perfecoat-workshop-painting-a-bio-based-future-with-perfecoat-online/
Looking for bio-based solutions in paint and coatings? Then join our final webinar by the PERFECOAT project.
The team will introduce its latest results in the development of bio-based binders, fillers, pigments and funtional nano-materials while also discussing sustainability, social-sustainability and toxicology testing.

The EU- & CBE JU funded research project PERFECOAT project aims to develope high-performance, bio-based industrial wood and decorative paints and coatings with a minimum of 25 % bio-based components. Successful solutions will support the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives in the paint and coatings industry and thus the pursuit of a climate-neutral Europe.
On 27 August 2024, from 13:00 to 15:00 CEST, the PERFECOAT team will present its achievements and latest results in a final webinar, while also discussing the identified obstacles and challenges. This event will delve into various key accomplishments and present crucial results that will enable industry stakeholders to opt for greener solutions in their own formulations and applications.

Development of Bio-Based Binders: Discover how alginates, xanthan, and xylan have been successfully utilized to create effective bio-based binders.
Natural Pigment and Dye Innovations: Learn about the sustainable colorants produced from yeast and fungi, offering eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pigments.
Enhanced Paint Properties: Explore the advancements in paint durability and performance through the integration of functional nano materials and fillers.
Sustainability and Safety Assessment: Gain insights into comprehensive assessments comparing the sustainability, social sustainability, health and safety, toxicology and performance of these bio-based paint components with conventional fossil-based products.
Formulation and Testing: Learn how the performance of the final formulations is tested and evaluated in different applications.

This online events offers the opportunity to meet the partners online, ask live questions and learn more about the bio-based solutions in the paint and coatings industry.
Registration link: https://perfecoat-project.eu/neuigkeit/final-webinar-painting-a-bio-based-future-with-perfecoat-achievements-and-current-challenges-of-creating-sustainable-paints-and-coatings
Kindly funded and supported by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU)

nova-Session: The latest on the EU policy framework for plastics, ecodesign and sustainability
2024-06-27 14:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-the-latest-on-the-eu-policy-framework-for-plastics-ecodesign-and-sustainability/
Hosts: Nicolas Hark, Luciano Proto Cassina (nova-Institute)
In this nova Session two of nova’s Policy experts, Luciano Proto Cassina and Nicolas Hark, are going to give a concise overview of the latest developments in the EU policy framework for Renewable Carbon in the chemical and material industries.
This includes the latest news on the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation, the recently published Communication on Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and the associated Reporting Standards among others.
Participants will also have the opportunity to discuss on these topics with the experts as well as other participants after each topic.

14:00 (CET)
Welcome and Introduction
Asta Partanen
(nova-Institut GmbH)

14:10 (CET)
Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and Ecodesign for Sustainable Product Regulation
Nicolas Hark
(nova-Institut GmbH)

14:40 (CET)
EU Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Communication, Green Claims Directive
Nicolas Hark
(nova-Institut GmbH)

15:10 (CET)
EU Sustainable Finance Framework, the CSRD, ESRS and the CSDDD
Luciano Proto Cassina
(nova-Institut GmbH)

15:50 – 16:00 (CET)
Outlook and Wrap Up
Nicolas Hark
(nova-Institut GmbH)

BioReCer-Workshop: Certifying the sustainability of biological resources at the EU level: focus on the forest industry
2024-06-13 09:00 - 15:00 | RISE Ornsköldsvik premises, Hörneborgsvägen 10, Domsjö, 892 50
13 June 2024, 9:00-15:00 (CET), Örnsköldsvik, Västernorrland, Sweden
This in-person event organised by the Horizon Europe project BioReCer project brings together all major stakeholders of the Swedish forestry sector in order valorise residues from the forest industry like branches, roots, tips, saw dust, bark and sludge.
The BioReCer project aims to assess and complement current certification schemes for biological resources according to the new EU sustainability goals to enhance bio-based circular systems. Participants will have the opportunity to answer the following questions: How can industries increase the value of these biological resources? How to guarantee their traceability in the value chain? Why is it useful to increase consumer confidence towards products made from biodegradable materials?
Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdszrvMkBR4-marHAroU-j3PT2pYyOhs_mZDkTfpKNNVO6lag/viewform
DEADLINE to REGISTER: 31st of May

PERFECOAT Webinar "Safety and Sustainability of Novel Bio-Based Materials – Assessments and Used Methodology“
2024-06-10 13:00 - 14:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/perfecoat-webinar-safety-and-sustainability-assessments-and-used-methodology/
Next episode of the PERFFECOAT webinar series
In the penultimate episode of the five-piece webinar series of the CBE JU funded research project PERFECOAT the experts will give insights about assessments and used methodology in regards to safety and sustainability of the developed bio-based compounds for sustainable paints and coatings.
When developing novel bio-based solutions, safety and sustainability of bio-based paint and coating products for users and environment mark a top priority. Within the last three years, the partners involved in the EU-funded PERFECOAT project successfully generated and examined a broad variety bio-based paint and coating ingredients. These include a selection of binders made from, e.g., modified alginates (SINTEF), xanthan (Technical University Munich), and xylan (Celignis) derived from different biomass resources like agricultural residues, e.g., poplar wood, beech wood, wheat straw, and late cut grass. Furthermore, the team developed different formulations for red pigments and dyes as well as other colours (e.g., green and purple) produced from yeast and fungi. To allow for the modification of specific properties like self-healing surfaces and fire resistance, fillers and functional nano materials were developed from microbial biomass.
All these ingredients were tested with regard to their performance, requirements and properties in formulations of three specific use-cases:

high-volume UV-curable clear coatings,
waterborne trim paints for DIY, and
waterborne wall paints.

All materials developed in PERFECOAT need to meet highest safety and sustainability standards for users and environment. The project will therefore quantitatively demonstrate the sustainability improvements achieved with bio-based solutions compared to conventional fossil-based paints and coatings. This was done by establishing a framework for safety assessment (chemical leaching and skin sensitisation testing), life cycle assessment (LCA), life cycle costing (LCC), and potential social impacts of the developed products and processes. The social study started with identifying potential social impacts and factors that can influence social acceptance (including socio-political acceptance, market acceptance and community acceptance) through literature review and stakeholder interviews. The next steps include finalising the social impact assessment.
The webinar will provide an overview of applied frameworks, methodologies, and key highlights.
Learn more about the assessments by registering for the fourth webinar “Safety and Sustainability – Assessments and Used Methodology”.
With international top experts:
• Andy Booth (SINTEF Ocean)
• Kamal Azrague (SINTEF)
• Assiya Kenzhegaliyeva (SINTEF)
“Safety and Sustainability – Assessments and Used Methodology”
10 June 2024
13.00-14.00h CET
Online and free of charge
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xoIex-UQQ5iTWg73-R_wag
Safe the date for the last webinar episode:
26 August 2024 “The PERFECOAT project – achievements and obstacles”
The registration link will be shared shortly before the events.
To stay informed about future events, subscribe to the PERFECOAT newsletter at https://perfecoat-project.eu
The PERFECOAT project receives funding from the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (JU) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101022370. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.

Six pathways to smart certification of bio-based systems
2024-06-07 11:00 - 12:30 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/six-pathways-to-smart-certification-of-bio-based-systems/
Are you a policy maker, a member of the bio-based industry or a concerned consumer? Participate in the first webinar by the Horizon Europe project 3-CO on June 7th, 2024, 11 am to 12:30 pm (CET)! The webinar will address the vital topic of certification and labelling of biological feedstock, bio-based value chains and products.
Certification and labelling play a crucial role in empowering consumers to make informed and sustainable purchasing decisions by impeding greenwashing and instead providing credible and reliable sustainability information. Furthermore, they facilitate the tracking and traceability of biological feedstock throughout value chains, fostering transparency and accountability among stakeholders of the bio-based industry. However, there are a lot of challenges for current certification and labelling schemes, since they are often not sufficiently laid-out for bio-based products and their value-chains, and that they do not reflect the environmental and sustainability benefits.
Following different calls of the European Commission several Horizon Europe projects are currently tackling the issue of certification and labelling by taking into account current political and societal developments. The projects’ diverse approaches encompass assessment, monitoring, and validation of bio-based case studies, defining sustainability indicators, formulating guidelines for certification and labelling schemes, offering policy recommendations, and developing innovative digital tools to provide information on bio-based value chains to consumers or industry stakeholders.
Join us on June 7th and listen to pitches from six HORIZON Europe projects: 3-CO, BioReCer, HARMONITOR, Star4bbs, SUSTRACK, and Sustcert4Biobased. Together, we’ll explore their innovative approaches, recent advancements and latest results that pave the way for shaping a strong circular EU bioeconomy.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Gu4n5RlgTV2E086kpopmYA#/registration
The organiser of the free webinar is 3-CO, which will support consumers’ purchasing decisions towards more sustainable solutions by improving the communication of label and certification schemes (LCS) on a Business-to-Consumers (B2C) level. To unlock the full potential of the bioeconomy and industrial bio-based products, 3-CO will establish a supportive framework and develop actionable guidelines for LCS owners that reflect consumers’ and other stakeholders’ needs. Meanwhile intense consumer involvement and digital tools will demonstrate their viability.
Find more information here: https://3co-project.eu
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 Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

nova Session on Sustainability Certification – a Solid Basis for Reliable Green Claims
2024-05-16 13:00 - 16:30 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/nova-session-on-sustainability-certification-16-may/
Hosts: Nicolas Hark, Senior, Specialist Economy and Policy, Asta Partanen, Senior Expert (both nova-Institute)
(13:00-16:00, CET)
Certification and labelling are becoming more and more important parts of the sustainability story, since the multitude of claims is confusing to consumers and can also be considered greenwashing in many cases. Two EU surveys in 2014 and 2020 confirmed that around 53% of all environmental claims on products were based on vague or false information and even 40% of all environmental claims did not provide verifiable evidence. Independent, third-party verification is one important tool to achieve credibility.
Also, more and more producers of chemicals, plastics, textiles and other materials are thinking about switching to biomass as a renewable resource. However, there is a lot of doubt about the overall sustainability of biomass use – and there is a big demand for reliable partnerships that increase knowledge and availability of feedstocks that can be used with a good conscience.
The three-hour webinar will introduce different options for biomass and bio-based products’ sustainability certification and what needs to be considered. A special focus will also be on the new requirements that are expected to come into play when the Green Claims Directive comes into force. Join this event to learn how to make your sustainability story even more convincing with sustainability certification.
Topics:

Overview of the biomass sustainability certification landscape
Certification process and traceability, chain of custody models
Requirements for verification and certification from the proposed Green Claims Directive
Practical examples of certifiers

Agenda:
13:00 Welcome and introduction
13:15 nova-Institute, Dr. Asta Partanen, Quo Vadis Sustainability Certification?
13:45 nova-Institute, Nicolas Hark, EU Green Claims Directive – What Does it Mean for the Industry?
14:15 Q&A
14:45 ISCC, Jasmin Brinkmann, Insights about the ISCC PLUS Certification Scheme and how to make Credible Claims
15:10 SCS Global Services, Erika Bartolomei and Gustavo Bacchi – Biomass and Bio-based Products’ Sustainability Certification.
15:35 Q&A
16:00 End

PERFECOAT Webinar "Formulation and Testing – Reality Check for New (Greener) Ingredients“
2024-05-13 13:00 - 14:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/webinar-formulation-and-testing-reality-check-for-new-greener-ingredients/
This insightful webinar will delve into the real-world performance of cutting-edge advancements in bio-based solutions within the paint and coatings industry, subjecting them to a rigorous reality check.
In the pursuit of sustainability, the transition from fossil-based to bio-based solutions is critical. The demand for high-performance ingredient alternatives, including bio-polymers, lipids, binders, fillers, pigments, and additives, is driving innovation in the paint and coatings markets. According to the American Coatings Association (2023), these components collectively constitute nearly 70% of the industry’s ingredients. Thus, bio-based solutions show great potential to enable a green a transition.
The EU-funded research project PERFECOAT is dedicated to developing bio-based solutions from waste and agricultural residues. Over two years of rigorous examination, PERFECOAT has successfully formulated innovative solutions tailored to meet industry standards and address sustainability challenges. Central to this endeavor is the meticulous testing of each ingredient in their final application as well as in formulation. Comprehensive evaluation methods cover a broad range of criteria, including chemical resistance, moisture resilience, abrasion resistance, and aesthetic factors such as color intensity and UV resistance.
Join us as we unveil the results of our testing methodologies and showcase demonstrator paints tailored for industrial use-cases:

High-volume UV-curable clear coatings
Waterborne trim paints for industrial and DIY applications
Waterborne wall paints optimized for residential and commercial use

To learn more, join three esteemed international experts:

Christine Louis (Evonik Coating Additives)
Eren Elik (Organik Kimya)
Roland Steinrücken (Remmers Group)

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights into the formulation and testing of greener ingredients. Register now and be part of the conversation driving sustainable innovation in the paint and coatings industry!

13 May 2024
13:00-14:00h CET
online
Register here!
More information on the PERFECOAT project is available at https://perfecoat-project.eu.

The PERFECOAT project has received funding from the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (JU) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101022370. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.

Next free PEFerence webinar with a market update on bio-based building blocks and polymers
2024-05-06 10:00 - 11:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/next-free-peference-webinar-with-a-market-update-on-bio-based-building-blocks-and-polymers/
Save the date and register to the next PEFerence webinar! This time, Pia Skoczinski from nova-Institute will give a sophisticated insight into the dynamically growing market of bio-based building blocks and polymers on the 𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐲 (𝟏𝟎 𝐭𝐨 𝟏𝟏 𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐄𝐓). Besides the well-known PHA and PLA, a highlight will be set on PEF and FDCA!
Register with this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B5wKVZNPRPa-cF-FKVgGYw#/registration
Purchase the full nova-report here: https://renewable-carbon.eu/publications/product/bio-based-building-blocks-and-polymers-global-capacities-production-and-trends-2023-2028/
The PEFerence consortium aims to replace a significant share of fossil-based polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and packaging materials like glass and metal with 100 % bio-based furanics polyesters. PEFerence establishes a unique, industrial scale, cost-effective 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭 to convert plant-based sugars into FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), the building block of PEF (polyethylene furanoate): a plant-based, fully recyclable plastic material with superior performance and significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics. PEF can be used in a wide range of applications such as bottles, packaging, films, fibres and textiles.
Get more information on PEFerence here: https://peference.eu
Recordings of previous webinars from the series can be found here: https://peference.eu/webinars_presentations
This project receives funding from the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (JU) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 744409. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.

Bio-based Innovations for Industrial Applications - Free registration • In-person Event
2024-04-24 09:00 - 17:00 | BIP Meeting Center in Brüssel, Rue Royale 2-4, Brussels, B-1000, Belgium
Explore the latest bio-based solutions for a variety of applications. The event combines presentations, a poster exhibition and plenty of opportunities for networking. Speakers will include researchers involved in the development of new bio-based materials and representatives from industry, the European Commission and the CBE JU.
The organisers of the event, the BBI JU projects CHAMPION and PERFECOAT, aim to replace conventional fossil-based materials with novel bio-based ones. The CHAMPION project focuses on bio-based thermoset coatings, structural adhesives, automotive interior surfaces and home care additives, while the PERFECOAT project is all about new bio-based ingredients for paints and coatings for wood and decorative applications. Four other thematically related European projects will also present their experiences in the quest for innovative and sustainable bio-based materials and products.
This event will be held the day after the CBE JU Info Day 2024 in Brussels.
Find the detailled agenda here.

Agenda:

09:00 – 09:30 Registration and welcome coffee

09:30-10:35 Session 1: End-user perspectives on bio-based innovations

Janice Lofthouse (University of York – CHAMPION) and Francesca di Bartolomeo (SINTEF – PERFECOAT) – Event Opening
Daan van Es (WFBR) – An Overview of the CHAMPION project
Francesca die Bartolomeo (SINTEF) – An Introduction to the PERFECOAT project
Marisa Groenestege (BTG Biomass Technology Group – HARMONITOR project) – Navigating trade and sustainability certification of bio-based value chains
Costanza Rossi (University of Utrecht – 3-CO project) – What drives sustainability in businesses?

10:35-10:50 Coffee break
10:50-12:15 Session 2: Making bio-based compounds

Oscar Bedzo and Lalitha Gottumukkala (Celignis) – Developing bio-based binders for wood coatings
Rolf Blaauw (WFBR) – Bio-based polymer synthesis and scale up
Amelie Skopp (Technische Universität München) and Anders Odum (Chromologics SA) – Developing bio-based paint ingredients: from fillers, to pigments, and functional additives
Claudio Pagella (IRIS Coating – LIGNICOAT) – Lignin-based clear fire protection biocoatings for wood

12:15-13:15 Light lunch, networking and poster exhibition

13:15-14:30 Session 3: Sustainability, safety and toxicity

Harrie Besselink (Wageningen University & Research – CHAMPION) and Andy Booth (SINTEF) – Safety and toxicity assessments and methodology
Assiya Kenzhegaliyeva (SINTEF Digital) and Angel Puente (nova-Institute)– Environmental and social sustainability assessment
Steven Verstichel (Normec OWS) – Circularity assessments and end of life options

14:30-15:45 Session 4: Industrial applications

Maarit Nyman and Algreit Dume (European Commission, DG GROW, Unit Bioeconomy, Chemicals & Cosmetics) – How can EU policy support the bio-based economy?
Chloe Johnson (CBE JU) – Circular Bio-Based Europe JU: supporting innovation of sustainable bio-based materials and products
Thomas Farmer (Unilever) – Application testing of polymers in CHAMPION
Simone Schulte (Evonik) and Roland Steinrücken (Remmers) – Bio-based coating formulation and application testing

15:50-16:00 Final words and Closure

Christian Simon (SINTEF) and James Clark (University of York’s Green Chemistry Centre) – Closing statement

16:00-17:00 Reception with drinks and networking, poster exhibition

We consider the mindful use of food resources a priority. Please only register if you plan to join.
Notes:
A VAT number may be requested during the registration process. However, as this is a free event, it is not necessary to enter this information. As we cannot switch off the VAT No. field from a technical point of view, it is advisable to enter any number.
We will take pictures at the event for later non-commercial use. Please inform the organisation team (info@perfecoat-project.eu) if you do not want pictures of you to be stored and used. We will use your email address to keep you informed about the event. This includes emails about the agenda, additional infos, changes and a follow-up informative email. With clicking the registration button, you agree to the above.

salles BIP zalen – Zinneke © visit.brussels – Jean-Paul Remy – 2020

CO2-based Fuels and Chemicals Conference 2024
2024-04-17 - 2024-04-18 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
The CO2-based Fuels and Chemicals Conference is one of internationally established and has developed into a unique meeting and networking place for the entire Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) and Power-to-X industry and its customers. The upcoming 12th edition of this conference again will continue with this success and will showcase again the newest and most important developments in the fast growing field of CO2 capture and utilisation.
With a current capacity of over 1.3 million tonnes for CO2-based products and steadily growing demand, smart Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) technologies are helping to establish CO2 as a renewable carbon feedstock. Innovative technologies and materials are crucial to meet the increasing demand for fossil-free carbon, e.g. derived from CO2 or biomass, especially in the chemical and fuel sector.
Further information: https://co2-chemistry.eu

PERFECOAT Webinar "Greener ingredients for bio-based paints and coatings"
2024-04-08 13:00 - 14:00
The paint and coating industry is in great need for high-performance bio-based solutions especially for binders, fillers, pigments, and additives like functional nanomaterials. The EU-funded research project PERFECOAT has the goal to introduce a variety of new biomass-derived solutions to replace fossil material in paint and coating ingredients. The different biomass sources, tailormade modifying methods, and the biotechnology used the process the biomass are topics of this webinar.
So far in the project, the PERFECOAT team has successfully developed innovative bio-based solutions from bio-waste and agricultural residues. Besides microbially produced alginates and lipids, the project also aimed to develop and produce at least two different formulations for bio-based red pigments and dyes as well as other colours and identified great potential for the production of red and orange pigments from the fungus Talaromyces atroroseus. Alternative strategies for carotenoids used the yeasts R. toruloides and Y. lipolytica, which also allow the production of the violet pigment violacein, resulting in a deep purple colour. Other pathways show potential for the development of additional colours such as green from prodeoxyviolacein or pink from deoxyviolacein.
The second webinar episode will present equally successful solutions for the ingredient group of binders. Binders represent one of the main challenges in paint-formulations. Different project partners generated a selection of bio-based binder samples, e.g., modified alginates (SINTEF), xanthan (Technical University Munich), and xylan (Celignis) derived from different biomass resources like agricultural residues, e.g., poplar wood, beech wood, wheat straw, and late cut grass.
Curious to learn more about the utilisation of biomass for paint and coatings ingredients?
Register for the second webinar “Greener ingredients for bio-based paints and coatings”.

Amelie Skopp (Technical University Munich) – The beauty of “green” – rethinking an approach to bio-based ingredients
Srdjan Gavrilović (TalTech) – Modification of bio-based feedstock for binder applications
Anders Ødum (Chromologics) – Scale up of precision fermentation for bio-based ingredients

8 April 2024
13:00-14:00h CET
online
Register here!

Cellulose Fibres Conference 2024
2024-03-13 - 2024-03-14 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
The unique conference focused on cellulose fibres – in textiles, hygiene products and packaging. The Cellulose Fibres Conference 2024 will cover the entire value chain, from lignocellulose, chemical pulp, cellulose fibres such as rayon, viscose, modal or lyocell and new developments to a wide range of applications.
Recently the European Commission has made the thorough transition towards sustainability and circularity for different industries and especially the textile sector a main focus. This demands a new way of thinking with regard to sustainability and circularity within the textile economy. This process already starts with the material selection of the fibres used for the textiles. Generally, textiles consist of fibres, which can be made from renewable and non-renewable resources. A first step towards improving the sustainability of textiles is the change from non-renewable to renewable fibres. In consequence, the textile industry shows a steadily increasing, enormous demand on renewable and sustainable fibres.
Further information: https://cellulose-fibres.eu

Towards bio-based paints and coatings – Fundamentals and an introduction to the PERFECOAT project
2024-03-05 13:00 - 14:00
Everything you ever wanted to know about sustainable paint and coatings: The PERFECOAT Webinar Series
First webinar “Towards bio-based paints and coatings – Fundamentals and an introduction to the PERFECOAT project” on 5 March 2024, 13.00-14.00 (CET), online
Starting on 5 March 2024 the CBE JU funded research project PERFECOAT launches its upcoming webinar series to present bio-based compounds for sustainable paints and coatings as well as end applications to young researchers.
The European paints and coatings market is projected to grow from USD 37.2 billion in 2023 to USD 41.6 billion by 2028 (Markets and Markets, 2023). While a majority of currently used ingredients are fossil-based, prospects show an increasing demand for sustainable paints and coatings, especially in the professional and DIY (Do it yourself) industries. To enable a smooth transition from fossil to sustainable products, the industry is in desperate need for high performance bio-based solutions especially for bio-polymers and lipids, binders, fillers, pigments and additives like functional nanomaterials. These major component groups combined account for nearly 70 % of the ingredients (American Coatings Association, 2023). In the first two years of examination, the EU funded research project PERFECOAT (https://perfecoat-project.eu) successfully developed innovative bio-based solutions, from bio-waste and agricultural residues. These will be tested in the formulation of three use-cases: UV-curable clear coatings for wood, waterborne trim paints for DIY, and waterborne wall paints.
At this project stage, the partners successfully developed bio-based polymers and lipids, binders, fillers, fungal pigments and dyes, as well as different additives like functional nanomaterials. These cover a variety of performance requirements like paint texture and grip, clarity, flexibility, UV resistance (no yellowing) as well as drying and curing time.
In the first webinar “Towards bio-based paints and coatings – Fundamentals and an introduction to the PERFECOAT project” international experts will introduce the basics of paint and coatings formulation and address the potential of bio-based solutions in this field. A historic overview will address paint and coating applications and discuss the performance requirements for newly developed solutions and challenges in novel applications.
Curious? Register for the first webinar with speakers:

Alexander Wetzel (SINTEF), PERFECOAT project-coordinator
Christine Louis (Evonik Coating Additives)
Ilker Kocabiyik (Organik Kimya)

“Towards bio-based paints and coatings – Fundamentals and an introduction to the PERFECOAT project”
5 March 2024
13.00-14.00h CET
Online and free of charge
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_J89d3zn8RxKrPGclabc8-A#/registration
Take a glimpse at the following webinars:
8 April 2024, 13:00-14:00h CET “Greener raw materials and ingredients for paints and coatings”. Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_J0vNSUjTSy-eRPYlMdXX_Q
13 May 2024, 13:00-14:00h CET “Formulation and Testing – Reality Check for new greener paint and coating ingredients”
10 June 2024, 13:00-14:00h, CET “Safety and Sustainability of sustainable paint and coatings – Assessments and used methodology”
26 August 2024 “The PERFECOAT project – achievements and obstacles”
The registration links will be shared shortly before the events. To stay informed, subscribe to the nova-Institute newsletter or the PERFECOAT newsletter.
More information on PERFEOCOAT is available at https://perfecoat-project.eu
The PERFECOAT project receives funding from the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (JU) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101022370. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.

PEF (polyethylene furanoate) is an aspiring new bio-based material aiming at replacing fossil PET in a variety of applications - Free registration • online
2024-02-26 11:00 - 12:00
The Horizon Europe project PEFerence cordially invites you to participate in the next upcoming free webinar elaborating on Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF) as a biobased polyester for the textile industry.
The webinar will be held by Pavan Kumar Manvi (Avantium).
After the presentation the stage is open for Q&A.
Further information and registration link.

Sustainability Claims under New EU Legislation
2024-02-07 13:00 - 15:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/green-claims-directive/
Are you also wondering what the future of green claims, labels and certifications will mean for your business? In recent months, the EU has aimed at creating new framework conditions for the marketing of environmental claims on products and services. This is especially seen with the recently published Proposal for a Green Claims Directive.
Marketing terms such as “climate neutral”, “recyclable” or self-created environmental labels are increasingly common on consumer goods, but so far only a few comes with a scientific proof. The EU wants to change this practice and wants to ensure better consumer protection and fair market transparency with its proposal for the Green Claims Directive.
This means that companies will have to adapt on how to substantiate their sustainability claims. To help you understand these policies and their implications, nova-Institute will host a webinar on “Sustainability Claims and Labels under new EU Legislation”. During this nova-Session you will have the chance to hear experts discuss the recent policy initiatives, their impacts, advantages and disadvantages for European businesses.
In addition, we will discuss what is to be expected from upcoming legislation on products environmental claims and substantiation. There will be different inputs by experts and ample time for discussion.

Hosts

Lara Dammer (Head of the Economy and Policy Department, nova-Institute)
Ángel Puente (Senior Expert LCA & Sustainable Chemistry, nova-Institute)
Luciano Proto Cassina (Specialist in Bioeconomy and Circular Economy Policy, nova-Institute)

Topics

Life-cycle assessment in the context of sustainability claims
Proposal for a Green Claims Directive
Labels and certifications

Program (all CET)

13:00 – 13:15 Welcome and Introduction (Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)
13:15 – 13:45 EU Framework on Green Claims and Consumer Empowerment (Luciano Proto Cassina, nova-Institute)
13:45 – 14:15 Scientific Approaches of LCA and Green Claims (Ángel Puente, nova-Institute)
14:15 – 14:45 EU Labels and Certifications under the new Green Claims Directive (Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)
14:45 – 15:00 Outlook and Wrap Up (Lara Dammer, nova-Institute)

Do not miss this great opportunity to engage directly with experts from the industry, policy and academia. Join us for an informative and engaging nova Session on “Sustainability Claims and Labels under new EU Legislation”.
Register now to secure your spot!

PEF in bottle applications: material properties, processing, and performance - Free registration • online
2024-02-05 14:00 - 15:00
The Horizon Europe project PEFerence cordially invites you to participate in the next upcoming free webinar elaborating on PEF for bottle application.
The webinar will be held by Ele de Boer (Avantium) and Josh Turner (BMT).
After the presentation the stage is open for Q&A.
Further information (https://peference.eu/news) and registration link.

LCA, Business, Policy – The Sustainability Nexus
2023-12-13 10:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/lca-business-policy/
Hosted by Dr. Matthias Stratmann, Lara Dammer (nova-Institute)
Sustainability is turning into a major factor for businesses, driven by at least three different aspects: Customers demand relevant information from the market, responsible entrepreneurs strive to reduce the negative impact of their actions, and various political directives oblige companies to report on several non-financial aspects of their business and products.
The good news is that many requirements have a common denominator. A good data base, knowledge of scientific methods, the use of synergies with other areas of the company and, finally, knowledge of the relevant regulations enable companies to approach the sustainability topic in a positive and value-creating way.
This nova Session will give you the opportunity to learn about the basics of standardized Life Cycle Assessment methods and recent developments in sustainability initiatives. nova experts and guest speakers from the Commission and the JRC will explain the increasing requirements for sustainability reporting placed on your company by policy and how you can prepare for it. There will be ample space to discuss and answer your questions.

Topics

LCA basics – methods and standards
ISO 14067, ISO 14044
New developments in sustainability assessment – examples PEF and “Together for Sustainability”
Product vs. Corporate Carbon Footprint – what do you need?
Evolution of LCA in policy
EU Taxonomy
Green Claims Directive
Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive
Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive

Preliminary Program
13 December 2023, 10:00 – 16:00 h (CET: Central European Time), online

10:00
Welcome and Introduction
L. Dammer/M. Stratmann, nova-Institute / all

10:15
Introduction to LCA – scientific background and current developments TfS und PEF
Matthias Stratmann, nova-Institute

11:00
Corporate vs. Product Carbon Footprint
Matthias Stratmann, nova-Institute

11:15
Q&A

11:30
Best practice, Renewable carbon stories

12:30
Q&A

12:45
Lunch Break

13:20
LCA in recent and future policies – Taxonomy, Green Claims, ESPR, CSRD, CSDDD
Lara Dammer, nova-Institute

14:00
Q&A

14:30
The Green Claims Directive Proposal
Małgorzata Gołębiewska, EU Commission, DG Envi

15:30
Final Q&A & wrap-up

Lara Dammer, nova-Institute

16:00
End of the workshop

News from CCU – From Carbon Capture and Green Hydrogen production to CO2 Utilisation for Chemicals, Advanced Fuels, Polymers, Proteins and Minerals and its related Political Framework
2023-12-05 10:00 - 16:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/news-from-ccu/
Hosts: Michael Carus, Achim Raschka, Pauline Ruiz, Nicolas Hark and Pia Skoczinski (nova-Institute)
Guests: Laura Martí Montaner (AIMPLAS), Célia Sapart (CO2 Value Europe), Volker Sick (Global CO2 Initiative)
Carbon Capture & Utilisation is one essential pillar for the supply of renewable carbon besides biomass and recycling and therefore one of the key technologies for the transition to sustainable chemical and fuel production and to substitute fossil feedstock sources, to fight climate change and to shift towards climate-friendly production and consumption. For providing the full benefits of CCU technologies the use of renewable energy and hydrogen is indispensable and a crucial for the production of CO2-based transportation and aviation fuels, bulk and fine chemicals.
The session will focus on developments in carbon capture, green hydrogen production, technologies and trends for CO2-based chemicals, building blocks and polymers, fuels, proteins and minerals as well as the latest policy developments for CCU.
The use of CO2 as chemical feedstock for chemicals and polymers has been intensively diversified. Several successfully implemented technologies used at commercial level are in place and many more at the laboratory and pilot phase. Besides the long-established use of CO2 for the synthesis of polycarbonates, also polyurethanes are based on it. The most notable biotechnological conversion pathway of a syngas produces ethanol at commercial scale. Additionally, high interest is also observed in CO2-based methanol and in CO2-based hydrocarbons, which can be used for fuel, chemical and polymers applications. A current total production capacity of these CO2-based products of ca. 1.3 Mt/a in 2022 is observed and a strong increase in capacity is expected by 2027.
The utilisation of CO2 as a feedstock for materials and chemicals has not gained significant traction in policy yet. However, there are some recent developments that look promising for CCU technologies, especially in energetic applications. What specific support is already there and what can be expected in future EU policy for CCU applications will be explored in this session.

Topics

Carbon Capture – Methods and Technologies
Green Hydrogen Production
Technology and Trends Overview of CO2-based Chemicals and Polymers, Fuels, Proteins and Minerals
Policy Landscape of Carbon Capture & Utilisation

Program
(all CET: Central European Time)

10:00
Michael Carus (nova-Institute): Session Opening

Tour de Table and nova introduction

10:30
Michael Carus (nova-Institute): Making a Case for CCU

The Renewable Carbon Concept
Introduction to CCU
Making a Case for Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) – It Is Much More Than Just a Carbon Removal Technology

Participant contributions & discussion

11:15
Nicolas Hark (nova-Institute): Policy Landscape of Carbon Capture & Utilisation

Status and outlook on how CCU is recognised in EU legislation – both for materials/chemicals and in energy uses
How does EU legislation on CCU compare to the United States?

Participant contributions & discussion

12:00
Lunch break

12:30
Pia Skoczinski, Pauline Ruiz and Achim Raschka (nova-Institute): Overview on Carbon Capture & Hydrogen Production, Technology & Trends Overview of CO2-based Chemicals and Polymers, Fuels, Proteins and Minerals

Methods, technologies and key players for carbon capture
Methods, technologies and key players for green hydrogen production
Status and outlooks for:
Chemical and electrochemical CO2-conversion: technologies, trends and key players
Biotechnological CO2-conversion: technologies, trends and key players
CO2-to-Proteins: technologies, trends and key players
CO2-to-Minerals: technologies, trends and key players

Participant contributions & discussion

13:15
Laura Martí Montaner (AIMPLAS): Making Value out of CO2 to Create a Circular Economy for the Plastic Sector

Participant contributions & discussion

14:15
Volker Sick (Global CO2 Initiative): Identifying Opportunities and Risks in Carbon Management

Participant contributions & discussion

15:00
Célia Sapart (CO2 Value Europe): How will CCU Contribute to Reach Climate Neutrality in the EU?

Participant contributions & discussion

15:45
Outlook & Wrap-up

Get the newest market and policy developments for CCU. Join the nova Session and discuss with the experts.
The nova-Institute invites to the nova Session on 5 December 2023 that will take place as an online event.

ADVANCED RECYCLING CONFERENCE (ARC)
2023-11-28 - 2023-11-29 | Maternushaus, Kardinalfringsstraße 1-3, Köln, 50668, Germany
All you want to know about advanced recycling technologies and renewable chemicals, building-blocks, monomers, and polymers based on recycling: Hear about it at the Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC).
The unique concept of presenting all advanced recycling solutions and related topics at one event will guarantee a comprehensive and exciting conference experience, including technologies such as extrusion, dissolution, solvolysis, enzymolysis, pyrolysis, thermal depolymerisation, gasification, and incineration with Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU).
Further information: https://advanced-recycling.eu

PEFerence: Use of Food/Feed Crops for Bio-based Materials and Effects on Food Security
2023-11-22 10:00 - 11:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/use-of-food-feed-crops-for-bio-based-materials-and-effects-on-food-security/
Using plant-based sugars as a resource leads us to a well-known debate: The competition between food and non-food when it comes to bio-based crops. This debate is flawed, subjective and not fully based on evidence. What is detrimental to food security are, according to the World Food Programme in 2023, climate change, conflict, extreme inequalities in wealth distribution, heavy dependence on food imports from industrial countries, overconsumption of meat, losses along the value chain and the impact of the COVID pandemic. Competition between biomass uses is not mentioned among the relevant causes.
The authors of a related paper (https://renewable-carbon.eu/publications/?search=1&woof_text=food) argue that using food and feed crops for chemicals and materials will not necessarily exacerbate food insecurity, and in fact has the potential to cause multiple benefits for local and global food security, climate mitigation and other factors. One of the main authors is Lara Dammer, Head of the “Economy & Policy” Department at nova-Institute.
This free webinar gives you the opportunity to learn more about the new scientific insights on crops for bio-based materials directly from the source. At the end, there will be time for your questions to be answered live by Lara Dammer.
PEFerence receives funding from the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (JU) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 744409. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.

Further information.

BioReCer – Annual Stakeholder Meeting (Free of Charge)
2023-11-13 15:00 - 17:00 | https://events.renewable-carbon.eu/event/biorecer-annual-stakeholder-meeting/
The BioReCer (Biological Resources Certifications Schemes) project aims to assess and complement current certification schemes for biological resources according to the new EU sustainability goals to enhance bio-based circular systems.
This will be achieved by including new criteria that align with EU taxonomy and EU corporate due diligence regulations into guidelines for certifying biological resources’ sustainability, origin, tracking and traceability (T&T), and by ensuring applicability at EU and global scale.
