UK report highlights green alternatives to plastics and petrochemicals

News

A new report is urging the UK government to invest in the development of 10 specific plant-based chemicals to replace environmentally harmful plastics and petroleum products.

PLASTICS

The UKBioChem10 report was produced by LBNet (Lignocellulosic Biorefinery Network), a government-backed organisation that supports the biotechnology sector and promotes novel bio-based chemical research. With plastics and petrochemicals coming under increasing scrutiny, LBNet has identified the top ten green alternatives to petroleum-based chemicals in products such as sanitary pads, perfumes, nylon, skin creams and detergents.

The 10 chemicals, listed below, were selected based on commercial viability, UK strengths to exploit, functionality and sustainability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to LBNet, investment in these chemicals would not only have a positive environmental impact, it would also help to create jobs, foster growth and boost trade. The organisation said the UK is already a research lead in this sector, but financial backing is needed to unlock its huge commercial potential. Alongside funding and support for research partnerships across academia and industry, the report recommends that government should prioritise bio-based materials in government procurement.

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