nova Session: “Bio- and CO2-based Polymers: Production, Trends 2022-2027 and the latest Policy Developments”

Bio-based and CO2-based Solutions – Where are we heading?

22 March 2023, 11:00 – 17:00 h (CET) (online).
Hosts: Michael Carus, Pia Skoczinski, Pauline Ruiz, Nicolas Hark, Achim Raschka (nova-Institute) and Gillian Tweddle (Stripe bv Consulting)

The only way for chemicals and plastics to become sustainable, climate-friendly and part of the circular economy is the complete substitution of fossil carbon with renewable carbon from alternative sources: biomass, CO2 and recycling. We see strong investment in all three sectors, with growth rates far exceeding that of fossil polymers – i.e. fossil polymers are being substituted in the market.

The session will focus on developments in bio- and CO2-based polymers and building blocks: Bio-based polymers are estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14 % from 2022 to 2027. Some examples: Bio-based epoxy resin production is on the rise, PTT regained attractiveness after several years of constant capacities and PE and PP made from bio based naphtha are being further established with growing volumes. Increased capacities for PLA are ongoing, after being sold out in 2019. Current and future expansions for bio based polyamides as well as PHAs are on the horizon. And also, bio-based PET is getting back in the game.

Additionally, the use of CO2 as chemical feedstock for building blocks 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 EU policy landscape has seen significant updates in the final weeks of 2022 with the proposed Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and the publication of the Policy Framework on bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics. How these updates may affect CO2 and bio-based polymers will be addressed in the session.

Topics

Market Overview Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers
Deep Dive into Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers
Technology and Trends Overview of CO2-based Building Blocks and Polymers
Mass Balance and Free Allocation
Renewable Carbon Concept
Policy: Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, Policy Framework on bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics

Get the newest market and policy developments for bio-based building blocks and polymers as well as the latest technology developments for CO2-based polymers. Join the nova Session and discuss with the experts.

The nova-Institute invites to the nova Session “Bio- and CO2-based Polymers: Production, Trends 2022-2027 and the latest Policy Developments” on 22 March 2023 that will take place as a hybrid event.

The workshop will focus on the market report “Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers –Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2022-2027” and the trend report “Carbon Dioxide (CO2) as Feedstock for Chemicals, Advanced Fuels, Polymers, Proteins and Minerals – Technologies and Market, Status and Outlook, Company Profiles”, which will be published in February and April 2023.

The main authors of the report will participate in the workshop and discuss with you. The nova Session offers the unique opportunity to exchange information about current market, technology and policy developments at the highest level. Book your on-site or online event for 545 or 495 EUR (excl. 19 % VAT) here.

With the confirmation mail of your registration, you will receive a 15 % allowance code for the purchase of the report “Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers –Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2022-2027” and the trend report “Carbon Dioxide (CO2) as Feedstock for Chemicals, Advanced Fuels, Polymers, Proteins and Minerals – Technologies and Market, Status and Outlook, Company Profiles” (https://renewable-carbon.eu/commercial-reports). Please note that the latter report will be published in April 2023.