The chemical industry is facing fundamental change. Acceptance of fossil raw materials is declining, new technologies are entering the market, and sustainability requirements are constantly increasing. How this change can be shaped in concrete terms was the topic of the symposium “Transformation of Chemistry By Using Renewable Feedstocks,” which was organized by the CTC in Halle from September 18 to 19, 2025.

Around 50 experts from science, industry, and politics came together, including representatives from BASF, Fraunhofer CBP, C1 Green Chemicals, UPM, the German Biomass Research Center (DBFZ), Leibniz IPB, Chemnitz University of Technology, and the University of Leipzig. The aim of the event was to discuss concrete approaches for the use of renewable feedstocks, present technological innovations, and highlight the regulatory and economic framework conditions for a sustainable transformation of the industry.

Industrial Region in Transition

State Secretary Thomas Wünsch (Saxony-Anhalt) emphasized the role of the central German industrial regions of Schkopau, Bitterfeld, and Leuna, which look back on a long history of change. Today, they are to serve as showcase locations for sustainable technologies. Saxony-Anhalt supports this process with financial and advisory measures. The CTC plays a central role in networking research and industry and accelerating innovation.

Diversity of Renewable Feedstocks and Technological Innovations

A wide range of renewable feedstocks was presented – from plant metabolites from by-products and ceramides from apple pomace to the microbial conversion of straw to Isobutanol. These contributions were supplemented by presentations on AI-supported processes for the design of surfactants, new catalysts and recycling strategies, as well as an innovative synthesis gas-based methanol process that is currently being scaled up in Leuna.

Discussions on the strategic use of biomass and efficient carbon management showed how important lignin chemistry, flow chemistry, and the use of industrial by-products such as black liquor are. Four key research areas were identified: conversion processes, SDG-based impact assessment, sustainable carbon sourcing, and technical optimization.

Regulation, Data, and new Business Models

In addition to technological issues, regulatory and economic aspects were also in focus. It became clear that scientifically based bioresource lists, new business models such as product leasing, and AI-compatible industrial data are crucial for making the transformation data-driven and transparent.

Conclusion: Transformation requires more than Technology

The symposium concluded with a panel discussion in which the results of the group work were compiled and reflected upon. It became clear that the transformation of the chemical industry is possible – but it requires a smart strategy for using limited renewable resources, international regulation, economic viability, and the involvement of all players along the value chain.

Photos: © Vincent Grätsch