​​Sustainable chemistry for a circular future. 

Avantium

The Northern Netherlands is working on the greenest chemistry in the world. With Chemport Europe as the driving force, we are building a circular economy in which fossil raw materials make way for sustainable alternatives. From bio-based raw materials to advanced recycling: the region offers a complete and coherent ecosystem for companies that want to contribute to the chemical transition. 

There are some 150 chemical companies working closely together to accelerate innovations in biobased and circular chemistry. Well-known names such as Avantium, BioBTX, CuRe Technology and Paques Biomaterials are working on technologies that make sustainable chemistry possibleThink of the production of biopolymers, chemical recycling of plastics and the reuse of CO₂ as feedstock. 

NOM investments in Green Chemistry

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Uppact
Paques Biomaterials logo
Logo BioBTX
DSL-01 BV
Avantium B.V.
Nedmag
Recell Group
BioBTX
BioBTX

Opportunities and challenges in the northern Netherlands

 

The Northern Netherlands has a strong position in sustainable chemistry thanks to three integrated chemical clusters: 

  • Chemport Delfzijl: specializing in sustainable chemical production and CO₂ reuse. 
  • Chemport Emmen: leader in fiber chemistry and biopolymers. 
  • Chemport Heerenveen: expert in circular plastics and advanced recycling. 

In addition, the region benefits from an agricultural hinterland for biobased raw materials, a well-developed infrastructure and a strong base in green energy, including hydrogen. 

The biggest challenge lies in scaling up new technologies and attracting additional expertise and investment in circular processes. 

New Age Industries Coevorden
New Age Industries Coevorden

Strengthening Green Chemistry Together

 

Do you want to contribute to the green chemistry of the future? Gladly, because the Northern Netherlands is still missing some links to make the chemical chain fully circular. For example, there is a growing need for expertise in biopolymers, especially in applications such as bio-based nylon and PEF. Avantium is already a pioneer here, but further development of biobased building blocks and scaling up production capacity are needed to make a real impact. 

Thermochemical recycling offers an alternative to the incineration of mixed plastics. Innovative techniques are already being developed in the Northern Netherlands, but further upscaling and new applications can make this method more widely applicable. The application of CO₂ as a raw material also remains a major focus. In Chemport Delfzijl, there are already projects in which CO₂ is converted into usable chemicals. Additional investments and new partners can accelerate this development! 

NOM supports companies in the green chemistry sector with networking, funding and collaborations. We bring you into contact with knowledge institutions, innovation hubs and international partners. We also offer funding opportunities and strategic advice to help companies grow and realize their sustainable ambitions. Wondering how your company can contribute to the chemical transition? We'd love to have a conversation with you.

Discover our programs and innovation projects

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History of the Chemistry Sector in the Northern Netherlands.

Discover stories about 100 years of Chemistry in the Northern Netherlands on the interactive timeline.

Discover the timeline
The front cover of the longread on green chemistry

Longread about Green Chemistry

Read more about this sector in the comprehensive longread. Download the free pdf.

Download pdf

Latest media on Green Chemistry

Nom Jan24 008 Nom Jan24 002 NOM March24 003 Ronald Zijlstra Maaike Sil Faber Stijn Kamminga Amarenske Klatter

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