Overview

Modern society relies heavily on carbon-based chemicals for pharmaceuticals, plastics, textiles, food additives, cosmetics, and cleaning products. Traditionally, these chemicals are derived from fossil feedstocks (petrochemicals), contributing to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change.

While global efforts are reducing fossil fuel use in energy, the petrochemicals sector is projected to grow, posing a significant challenge for climate change mitigation. Immediate action is essential to reduce GHG emissions across all sectors. Decarbonising carbon-based chemicals isn’t feasible, but transitioning to renewable carbon sources like biomass, recycled materials, or CO2 is. This report emphasises using biomass feedstocks for creating carbon-based chemicals, offering environmental and societal benefits such as:

• Safer, biodegradable products
• Enhanced resource security
• Creation of green jobs
• Income for rural economies

Transitioning to bio-based chemicals is complex, with varied evidence on risks and benefits. Government intervention and clear policies are crucial for fostering this shift and addressing climate change effectively.

BBNet and Supergen Bioenergy hub have worked together to produce a joint report on how biomass can contribute to the defossilisation of the chemicals sector.

Read the full report to explore the potential and challenges of defossilizing carbon-based chemicals.

Read the two-page briefing note to explore our recommendations UK policy makers.

More information and supporting evidence can be found on the Supergen Bioenergy website.