colleague See which GIC projects are taking flight, where to meet us at K Fair, and how you can join us to advance circular, net-zero chemicals & plastics.
This month marks a major milestone for the Global Impact Coalition as two of our flagship innovation projects are spinning out into independent ventures — a clear signal that our collaborative model is working and delivering impact.
Sustainable Olefins: Now officially a spin-off, this initiative is moving forward to develop scalable, low-emission pathways for olefin production. Starting with a feasibility study, this marks the first step toward exploring a new methanol-based route to electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) and low-carbon chemicals in Europe. SEE PRESS RELEASE
Waste-to-Chemicals Study: In partnership with ETH Zurich researchers and GIC members BASF, Clariant, Covestro, LyondellBasell, and SUEZ, this new effort explores cutting-edge direct conversion technologies that can turn waste into valuable chemical feedstocks. The study aims to assess the feasibility and potential of this emerging technology as a game-changer for circular chemistry. SEE PRESS RELEASE
Beyond these exciting launches, September was also a month of global engagement. GIC's CEO shared insights at Sustainability LIVE in London and NY Climate Week, and we convened the GIC CEO Advisory Board for its bi-annual meeting to align on next steps for scaling circular, net-zero solutions. Together, we’re turning ambition into action — and accelerating progress toward a more sustainable chemical value chain.
K Fair Co-Creation Workshop:
Shape Circular Plastic Solutions with GIC
We're inviting executives from chemical and plastics producers to join GIC for an interactive co-creation session at K Fair. Together, we'll identify ecosystem-level ideas to advance the plastics industry and value chains towards a circular future. We'll explore how we can collectively achieve breakthrough sustainable business solutions unattainable for companies working on their own.
Wednesday, 8 October, 15:00 - 16:30; K Fair at Messe Düsseldorf
Sergio is inspired by the chance to turn chemistry and catalysis into innovation for sustainable growth — developing technologies and materials that bring the “Promethean dream” closer to reality. Read on to see what excites Sergio about GIC, the sustainability challenge he believes deserves more attention, and the creative passion he pursues outside of work. Read more
Karl Rufener
LyondellBasell
For Karl, innovation is about turning today’s challenges into tomorrow’s solutions. Within the GIC, Karl finds inspiration in working alongside a community of motivated leaders united by a common vision of sustainable transformation. Outside of work, Karl draws energy from exploration — check out the post to see what's on his list of places to return to! Read more
Project Update: Opportunity for Collaboration
We’re inviting downstream brands and innovators to help shape and advance our projects. If you’re developing new solutions or seeking to strengthen your circular value chain, we’d love to connect.
Automotive Plastics Circularity Full sorting on 15 polymer groups is kicking-off, with recycling tests to follow at each of the 8 member companies. CallingOEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to join our webinar in mid-October to learn more and explore collaboration opportunities. REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND
Sustainable Biomass Sourcing We’re exploring how to effectively source and efficiently convert agricultural and forestry residues (second generation biomass) into methanol and olefins — key building blocks for everyday products — while ensuring responsible sourcing and low emission conversion processes.
Circular Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) This project focuses on identifying an optimal set of waste-to-value technologies to transform mixed household waste into circular chemical feedstocks.
If you’re working in these areas or represent a brand committed to circularity and net zero, reach out to get involved.
Stay informed: Recent GIC Articles
Chemical Engineering: The role of advanced recycling in driving a circular economy
Article exploring several emerging chemical recycling technologies that can be used to directly convert carbon-rich feedstock from municipal waste into olefins. This article also explains further the research project underway with 5 GIC companies and ETH Zurich scientists. Read full article
Innovation News Network: Understanding PFAS
PFAS, often called 'forever chemicals,' pose a growing environmental and health challenge due to their extreme persistence and widespread use across industries. Conventional water treatment methods struggle to eliminate these compounds, especially short-chain PFAS, prompting urgent innovation in destruction technologies. The Global Impact Coalition is leading a collaborative effort to identify, test, and scale viable PFAS destruction solutions tailored to industrial process water systems. Read full article
