Sustainable Chemistry SPOTLIGHT 2024

How do I start a sustainable biotech company? In this session I will share about ourjourney and will provide some information you need to build your own company. Wewill cover how to find the best business partners, raise capital, build a team, andcreate a business plan. Additionally, I will provide insight into the potentialchallenges you may face and how to overcome them. At the end of this presentation,you will have a basic understanding and knowledge about important things to considerand some pitfalls to avoid before developing your own sustainable biotech company.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Anna Becker
Director PolicyISC3

Felix Wollenhaupt
Co-Founder and MD
Green Elephant Biotech GmbH

Session 2 was a special edition of ISC3’s Sustainable Chemistry Club. Day 1 of theSPOTLIGHTS marked the 5th webinar on Advancing UNEP’s Ten Objectives and GuidingConsiderations for Green and Sustainable Chemistry.

The objective of this webinar discussion was to highlight actions being taken topromote and implement Green and Sustainable Chemistry in the innovation ecosystem.In this session, the focus was on Objective 5 (Advancing sustainability of products)and 10 (Developing solutions for sustainability challenges) of the Ten Green andSustainable Chemistry Objectives and Guiding Considerations from UNEP's Green andSustainable Chemistry: Framework Manual. Amit Kumar Gupta (Vriddhijal AgriTechnologies Pvt) and Raj Tanna (SCHÜTZEN Chemical Group) showcased best practicesand spoke on key future actions. The session was joined by Colin Hannahan (GreenChemistry Consultant, UNEP) and Dr. Lalit Sharma (Technical Expert, GIZ India), whogave further insights into the importance of the topic, and was moderated by Dr.Alexis Bazzanella (ISC3) and Juanita Halblaub (ISC3).

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Amit Kumar Gupta
Founder
Vriddhijal Agri Technologies Pvt

Juanita Halblaub
Int. Relations Mng
ISC3 Innovation Hub

Colin Hannahan
Green Chemistry Consultant
UNEP

Dr. Lalit Sharma
Technical Expert
GIZ

Raj Tanna
Founder & Director
SCHUTZEN Chemical Group

Dr. Alexis Bazzanella
Moderator
Director
ISC3 Innovation Hub

Session 3 of the ISC3 SPOTLIGHTS featured a keynote speech by Prof. Dr. John Warner,moderated by Janina Haubenreißer (ISC3), celebrating 25 years of Green Chemistrysince the publication of Warner's and Paul Anastas' book "Green Chemistry" in 1998.During his speech, Warner provided an overview of Green Chemistry's history andcontext, its relationship with other approaches like Sustainable Chemistry and theCircular Economy, and its potential contributions to creating a sustainable future.

Throughout his career, Warner became aware that he had never received an educationon the risks associated with chemicals, which prompted him to found the field ofGreen Chemistry. Green Chemistry's primary goal is to minimise or eliminate the useof hazardous materials at the design stage of materials processes.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speaker:

John Warner
Scientist,Author,Founder

Janina Haubenreißer
Moderator
ISC3 Communications

Session 4 of the ISC3 SPOTLIGHTS focused on Sustainable Chemistry and circularity inthe context of the "From Farm to Fork" strategy. The discussion was led by Prof. Dr.Dr. Vania Zuin Zeidler, Ananya Manna, and Dr. Christopher Neumann, and moderated byAstrid Ewaz (ISC3).

Vania Zuin Zeidler, a full Professor at the Institute of Sustainable Chemistry atLeuphana University in Germany, provided an educational perspective on the topic.Ananya Manna, an Investment Director at ECBF, shared insights from an investmentperspective, while Dr. Christopher Neumann, the Vice President for Regulatory Policy& Stewardship at CropLife International, contributed a policy perspective to thediscussion.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Ananya Manna
Investment DirectorECBF | Venture Capital

Dr. Christoph Neumann
VP Regulatory Affairs & Stewardship
CropLife Int.

Prof. Dr. Dr. Vania Zuin Zeidler
Leuphana University

Astrid Ewaz
Moderator
Project Manager | Events
ISC3 Innovation Hub

During Session 5 of the ISC3 SPOTLIGHTS event series, a roundtable discussion washeld on promoting innovation in Sustainable Chemistry for start-ups and SMEs in theGhanaian E-waste sector. The objective was to highlight actions being taken topromote and implement Sustainable Chemistry and solutions for E-waste acrossdifferent stakeholders, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, and academia. Theevent sought to foster a common understanding of Sustainable Chemistry and E-wasteand showcase local and international innovations that support the implementation ofthe 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

The roundtable included Jeffrey Adongo from Electro Recycling Ghana, Sam Adu-Kumifrom Envirohealth Consult Ltd, Agudor Agabas from AppCyclers, Isaac Asomani fromWangara Green Ventures, Lydia Essuah from the Ministry of Environment, Science,Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Anurag Gupta and Dea Wehrli from E[co]work, andwas moderated by Samuel Opoku from Start.Up Lounge Africa. Participants had theopportunity to learn from experts from different stakeholder groups and participatein the discussion.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speaker:

Jeffrey Adongo
Innovations Manager
Electro Recycling Ghana

Sam Adu-Kumi
Executive Director
Environhealth Consult Ltd

Agudor Agabas
Founder
AppCyclers

Isaac Asomani
Investment Mng.
Wangara Green Ventures

Lydia Essuah
PPME @ MESTI
Ghana

Anurag Gupta
Deputy General Manager
E(co)work

Dea Wehrli
Co-Founder and board of management
E(co)work

Samuel Opoku
Moderator
Founding Partner
Start.Up Lounge Africa

Experts from Moroccan ministries, research institutes and NGOs met in a workshop on“Renewable Energy and Circular Economy” held in Rabat on Thursday 11 May 2023. Theworkshop was enriched by international experts. Discussions revolved around the lifecycle of renewable energy systems and lithium-ion batteries. The main topicsincluded the current state of the industry, the challenges it faces, possiblesolutions and the necessary next steps.

From a European perspective, several key insights were shared, providing valuableinput on existing regulations and best practices. The recycling association providedinsights into the informal sector and emphasised its importance to the process.

Speakers:

Dorota Bartkowia
Research coordinator
ISC3 / Leuphana

Claudio Cinquemani
Director Science & Innovation
ISC3

Aleksander Jandric
Solving the E-waste Problem Initiative

The second SPOTLIGHT about Renewable Energy and Sustainable Chemistry aimed atspreading knowledge about renewable Power-to-X (PtX) and its potential for thechemical industry. The PtX Hub (implemented by GIZ) partnered with ISC3 to host asession with Prof Dr Christoph Menke (Trier University of Applied Sciences) andSonia Rueda (PtX Hub) as speakers.

Prof Dr Christoph Menke provided a crash course on renewable PtX. He explained itsproduction process, and discussed PtX infrastructure, economics, and sustainabilityin reference to the EESG framework. He emphasized that to ensure sustainability, allfour areas, namely, environment, economic, social, and governance, must be takeninto account. His presentation highlighted the challenge of developing a hydrogenand PtX market and stressed the need to identify effective use cases for greenhydrogen and PtX, as renewables alone cannot fully replace current fossil fueldemand. However, this poses a dilemma that requires both the acceleration of greenhydrogen production and the development of a corresponding market.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Oleg Ditkovskiy
FT ManagerISC3 / GIZ

Prof. Dr. Christoph Menke
Professor
Hochschule Trier

Sonia Rueda
Advisor
PtX Hub - GIZ

The first session on "Circularity and Sustainability Data" presented variousprojects that apply Sustainable Chemistry concepts such as circularity toconstruction materials were presented. The session was moderated by Jens Krol (ISC3)and Cecilia Wandiga (CSTI).

The presentation by Juan Morillas (Share Your Green Design) explored the digitalecosystem and emphasised the importance of data-driven insights for understandingand shaping the environmental performance of buildings. He showcased thepossibilities of sustainable design for a greener future in architecture andconstruction, while highlighting the need for more education, data, and common sensein their application.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Phanos Hadjikyriakou
Co-Founder
2050 Materials

Peyton Laine
CEO
Mind the Chain

Juan Morillas
Founder
Share Your Green Design

Jens Krol
Moderator
Cap. Dev. Mngr.
ISC3

Cecilia Wandiga
Moderator
Executive Director
CSTI

The second session revolved around the critical issue of hazardous chemicals.Offering a scientific perspective, Dr. Kennedy Olale and Prof. Olivier Jollietshared insights, while UNEP presented an ongoing project dedicated to theelimination of those hazardous chemicals. The session was moderated by Jens Krol(ISC3) and Cecilia Wandiga (CSTI).

Dr. Kennedy Olale (Kisii University/CSTI) gave a deeper insight into "PFCs and PFAsin water proofing materials", presenting case studies from various African countriesand highlighting associated risks. His examination emphasized the significance ofunderstanding the environmental and health consequences of PFCs and PFAs, inspiringresponsible usage and sustainable alternatives.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Colin Hannahan
Green Chemistry ConsultantUNEP

Olivier Jolliete
Professor
Technical university Denmark

Kennedy Olale
LecturerKisii University/CSTI

Eloise Tounie
GEF Task ManagerUNEP

Jens Krol
Moderator
Cap. Dev. Mngr.
ISC3

Cecilia Wandiga
Moderator
Executive Director
CSTI

The third session was on "Sustainable Concrete and International Cooperation" andcovered projects from Argentina, Ghana and other African countries that appliedinnovative approaches to resource-efficient design in the concrete industry. Thesession was moderated by Jens Krol (ISC3) and Cecilia Wandiga (CSTI).

Stefan Landauer (GIZ) proposed a model approach to decarbonize the Argentine cementindustry. The GIZ project IREK II aims at promoting resource efficiency and climateprotection in G20 emerging economies, focusing on material efficiency of abioticmaterials in industrial processes. He also presented highlights of the policy paper,which include measures to reduce emissions and alleviate environmental pressures,and create employment opportunities in new sectors that facilitate integration intothe labour market.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Stefan Landauer
Advisor Init. Res. Effic. and Climate Action
GIZ

Wolfram Schmidt
Senior ResearcherBAM

Jens Krol
Moderator
Cap. Dev. Mngr.
ISC3

Cecilia Wandiga
Moderator
Executive Director
CSTI

The last session was on "Plastics and Sustainable Building: Research andE-learning". Dechema e.V. and the ISC3 presented the findings of their studies aboutthe use of plastics in the construction sector. The session was moderated by JensKrol (ISC3) and Cecilia Wandiga (CSTI).

Oleg Ditkovskiy (ISC3) presented ISC3’s report on "Plastics and SustainableBuilding", a study involving experts from science, public authorities, NGOs, andindustry to address important questions on this topic. He emphasized the need toconsider key sustainability factors like climate, health, environment, andaffordability, despite the appealing characteristics and potential for sustainablegrowth of plastics when managed properly.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Oleg Ditkovskiy
FT Manager
ISC3 / GIZ

Katja Wendler
Head of Subdivision "Resources"
DECHEMA e.V

Jens Krol
Moderator
Cap. Dev. Mngr.
ISC3

Kersten Ulrich
Moderator
Intern
ISC3

Cecilia Wandiga
Moderator
Executive Director
CSTI

The first session on our SPOTLIGHT: Policy & Stakeholder Dialog "From EBIT 2 SEBIT – How to incorporate the planetary boundaries into chemistry business" was presented by Professor Stephan Haubold, who is a Professor for Business Chemistry at Hochschule Fresenius University of Applied Sciences. The session was moderated by Janina Haubenreißer (ISC3).

The session unveiled a new approach for integrating science-based climate targets into business accounting through the innovative framework, called DATA. DATA is a cost-based approach transforming science-based targets into monetary values and sustainable earnings before interest and taxes (SEBIT). It comprises four steps: Define (set goals and KPIs), Assess (measure sustainability and impact), Transform (convert data into indicators and money), and Account (integrate findings into accounting). Notably, DATA can be readily implemented without the need for complex definitions regarding the value and utility of indicators.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Stephan Hauboldu
Prof. for Business Chemistry
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences

Janina Haubenreißer
Moderator
ISC3 Communications

"Sustainability and the Event Industry: A Call to Action" was the second session on our SPOTLIGHT: Policy & Stakeholder Dialogue and given by Felix Josephi and Laura Koliska, the Managing Directors of the event agency PIRATEx.

Felix Josephi and Laura Koliska discussed the challenges encountered in the event industry and innovative solutions devised in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, responsible sourcing, and digital solutions. The conversation also delved into the pivotal role of technology in minimizing the carbon footprint of events, showcasing the potential of digital and hybrid events.Furthermore, the experts shared practical insights and applicable strategies, offering attendees tangible takeaways.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

Felix Josephi
Managing Director
PIRATEx GmbH

Laura Koliska
Managing Director
PIRATEx GmbH

The third session at the SPOTLIGHT: Policy and Stakeholder Dialogue was an interactive workshop on "International Perspectives on SSbD" and joined by Dr. Aleksandra Malyska (European Commission), Dr. Christopher Blum (German Environment Agency), Dr. Josef Wünsch (SusChem), Dr. Wibke Lölsberg (BASF), Eloise Touni (UNEP), and Theo Silberston (UNEP). The speakers gave insights and feedback from several perspectives on the current EU’s Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design criteria. Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) is considered a key element to the transition to the EU Green Deal, moving towards climate neutrality, zero pollution, and circular economy.

The initial SSbD criteria framework proposed by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) highlights the prevailing research challenges concerning data gap filling, substance and material property prediction, the streamlining of sustainability assessments, and establishing the link between sustainability performance and environmental capacities for environmental impacts. These challenges were thoroughly deliberated by the speakers who also put forth potential avenues for progress.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Christopher Blum
Int. Chemicals Management
UBA

Dr. Wibke Lölsberg
Corp. Sustainability Strategy
BASF SE

Dr. Aleksandra Malyska
European Commission

Dr. Steffi Richter
BMVU

Theo Silberston
PMA
UNEP

Eloise Tounie
GEF Task ManagerUNEP

Dr. Thomas Wanner
Managing Director
ISC3

Dr. Josef R. Wünsch
Senior Vice PresidentBASF SE

Janina Haubenreißer
Moderator
ISC3 Communications

The session on "EU Assessment Framework: Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design" with German stakeholders was a closed session on the fourth SPOTLIGHT: Policy & Stakeholder Dialogue. This interactive workshop allowed stakeholders to provide input and feedback on Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD), a key element in transitioning to the EU Green Deal for climate neutrality, zero pollution, and circular economy. The aim of this workshop was to publicise the draft assessment framework for inherently safe and sustainable chemicals and materials among national stakeholders, to call for practical application, as well as to invite to share experiences and contributions with the European Commission.

The discussion revolved around the essential inquiries regarding the applicability of the evaluation framework, both its strengths and limitations. It delved into the crucial aspects pertaining to research and development, as well as the significance of effective implementation in industrial practice. Furthermore, the discussion provided comprehensive recommendations for advancing the framework further.

Speakers:

Prof. Dr. Jennifer Strunk
Full Professor
TU München

Ralf Zuber
Senior Manager Government Affairs
Umicore AG Co. KG

Anna Becker
Director PolicyISC3

Dr. Steffi Richter
BMVU

The webinar "Pathways towards a Sustainable and Climate-Friendly Chemical Production" was organized by CAPCI on 2 June 2023 as part of the Spotlight Event by ISC3. It targeted stakeholders from the private sector, public institutions, civil society and academia. The webinar focused on potential pathways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from chemical production and use, particularly in developing and emerging economies.

Speakers from CAPCI partner countries shared their experiences working with CAPCI: Dr. Leila Devia from Argentina shared the experiences with the development of a roadmap for reducing greenhouse gases in the chemical industry. In Thailand, there is increased dialogue on integrating the chemical sector into the ambitious national climate policies due to CAPCI activities, as reported by Dr. Pattanan Tarin. Dr. Sam Adu-Kumi from Ghana spoke about the synergies between climate policy and chemical policy in general, highlighting the various multilateral conventions in force. In the discussion, all speakers pointed out that global agreements and international cooperation are very important for developing countries and emerging countries, especially with financial and technical support. The discussion made clear that forces, resources, and money need to be pooled to fight the major challenges of climate change and that those problems can only be solved together. A good communication strategy and awareness raising were identified as crucial success factors.

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Sam Adu-Kumi
Executive Director
Environhealth Consult Ltd

Dr. Leila Devia
Dir. of the BaselConvention
Regional Centre for SA, Argentina

Dr. Pattanan Tarin
Head of MEAs and Strategies Unit
DIW, Thailand

Detlef Schreiber
Moderator
Head of Project
GIZ

Session 6 was on "The Impacted are the Experts: Upgrading Chemicals Science-Policy with Knowledge and Perspectives of Youth and Local Communities" and explored the challenges and opportunities associated with youth and community engagement in chemicals and waste policymaking, including issues related to capacity-building, data collection, and communication. The session was moderated by Shannon Lisa.

The session was joined by Ulises Bobadilla y Jiménez (Regional Focal Point - Latin America & the Caribbean at the Chemicals and Waste Youth Platform - MGCY), Dr. Aline Villarreal (National Autonomous University of Mexico), José Caetano (University of Porto), Ola Alhaj (Regional Focal Point for the Middle East and North Africa at the Chemicals and Waste Youth Platform, RECO Environmental Project), Selma Bichbich (MENA Youth Network, Together for Blue and Green), and Eunice Njau (Mombasa Youth Assembly).

Session Recording
available

Speakers:

Ola Alhaj

Selma Bichbich

Ulises Bobadilla y Jiménez
Regional Focal Point
MGCY

José Caetano
PhD Candidate
Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto

Eunice Njau

Shannon Lisa
Moderator

The last session on day four of the SPOTLIGHT event series was on "Green Chemistry: Inventing a Circular Economy across organisations and industries" and presented by John Warner, one of the co-founders of the field of green chemistry. The session was moderated by Janina Haubenreißer (ISC3).

John Warner explained in his keynote that the pursuit of a sustainable circular economy in human society faces a significant hurdle. This obstacle stems from the independent development of various industries, which have evolved without recognizing the interconnectedness of adjacent processes. This results in the need to establish linkages that were not originally considered during development, which presents an enormous challenge. Although some industries have successfully implemented the principles of the circular economy, the majority of products and processes in industry remain disconnected and unsustainable in the long term. This session described examples of how organisations seeking a circular strategy benefit from integrating the principles of Green Chemistry with product design, manufacturing and supply chain management.

Session Recording
available

Partner:

Speakers:

John Warner
Scientist,Author,Founder

Janina Haubenreißer
Moderator
ISC3 Communications