Global Launch of the publication ‘Chemical Recycling in circular perspective’
August 21, 2023
On Monday, 21st of August, at the Chemistry NL Summit in The Hague (Netherlands) held against the backdrop of the IUPAC conference, the publication ‘Chemical Recycling in Circular Perspective’ had its international launch. The brochure was handed over to Mark Schmets, Team lead of Chemistry, Circularity and International of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate and Jacqueline Vaessen, Chair of the Dutch Chemistry Top Sector.
It is now available to download digitally: ‘Chemical Recycling in Circular Perspective’
“The brochure highlights the leading position of the Netherlands in this field and underscores the importance of effective recycling, circular solutions and renewable approaches in the feedstock transition.”
Willem Sederel, Chair Circular Biobased Delta
Elevating circular practices: Publication launch highlights Chemical Recycling's role
On behalf of the supporting partners the Circular Biobased Delta, Chemelot Circular Hub, Chemport Europe, TNO, TKI Chemistry and Circularity, the Netherlands’ Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and Infinity Recycling, Freek van Eijk, director of Holland Circular Hotspot, presented the publication that accentuates the pivotal role of chemical recycling in propelling the transition towards a circular and carbon-neutral chemical industry.
Photocredits: Sjoerd van der Hucht – MyEyes4U
Amidst the European imperative to achieve circularity and climate neutrality by 2050, this publication aligns with the ambitious target of the Netherlands reducing primary raw material consumption by 50% by 2030, an endeavour that gains added significance in light of the current global circularity rate standing at a mere 7.2%. Diving deep into the realms of chemical recycling, this brochure explores multifaceted dimensions, ranging from business development and innovation, financing, environmental aspects and the policy dimension. Also, it showcases more than 20 best practices from the Netherlands that spotlight the tangible and transformative applications of chemical recycling. Toolboxes and strategic approaches presented within the brochure serve as pragmatic blueprints for implementing effective and sustainable chemical recycling initiatives.
“I am very pleased that our Network Chemical Recycling has been able to contribute to this important brochure with content significantly, showcases and best practices. The brochure highlights the leading position of the Netherlands in this field and underscores the importance of effective recycling, circular solutions and renewable approaches in the feedstock transition.” Willem Sederel, Chair of the Circular Biobased Delta, expressed during his presence at the international launch in The Hague.
Photocredits: Sjoerd van der Hucht – MyEyes4U
"There is a magic momentum in North Western Europe but in order to scale to the size of the chemical industry the feedstock transition deserves as much attention and commitment as the energy and hydrogen transition."
Freek van Eijk, CEO Holland Circular Hotspot
Sharing Best Practices
By publishing this brochure, the authors and partners hope to stimulate discussions and inspire regulators, the knowledge community, entrepreneurs, and investors to work together towards sensible chemical recycling models. By sharing lessons internationally, others can accelerate development in a sensible direction and avoid pitfalls. The journey is rewarding. Together, we can adapt the Dutch solutions and practices to the local context and solve environmental issues. By doing so, we allow circularity and carbon neutrality to converge and shape the chemical industry of tomorrow, create meaningful local jobs, and contribute to the climate and Sustainable Development Goals.
Freek van Eijk, CEO of Holland Circular Hotspot, emphasized the significance of this publication, stating, “Chemical Recycling can steer the transition towards a circular and carbon-neutral chemical industry. There is a magic momentum in North Western Europe, but in order to scale to the size of the chemical industry, the feedstock transition deserves as much attention and commitment as the energy and hydrogen transition“.
The Dutch chemical industry and clusters
The Dutch chemical industry stands as a well-established and proactive participant in the global effort to combat climate change. The sector contributes significantly to decreasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promoting circularity thanks to its strong economic ties and favourable trade balance.
As Jacqueline Vaessen, Chair of Top Sector ChemistryNL, highlighted: “The Netherlands has a unique starting advantage to become a frontrunner in chemical recycling, with a strategic geographical position and a large chemical industry. Leaders in the sector are clustering around ecosystems like Chemport Europe, Chemelot, Rotterdam Port, Moerdijk, North Sea Ports and West Brabant, where their pioneering R&D efforts significantly contribute to a stronger chemical industry in the Netherlands.”
Read the full report: ‘Chemical Recycling in Circular Perspective‘
This publication is the result of a collaboration between Holland Circular Hotspot, The Netherlands Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, The Network Chemical Recycling of the Circular Biobased Delta, TNO, Chemport Europe,
Chemelot Circular Hub, Chemistry NL and Infinity Recycling.