New Report from RCI Details 10 Essential Policy Proposals to Unlock the Potential of Renewable Carbon in European Manufacturing
Over-reliance on fossil fuels for raw materials over 90% has placed the industry in a precarious position, reducing control over carbon emissions and impeding its ability to align with Europe’s ambitious green transition goals.
The impact is clear: signs of deindustrialisation are surfacing, with Europe’s chemical sector facing significant challenges. Yet, amidst this crisis lies a monumental opportunity: the chance to defossilise the industry by shifting to renewable carbon sources such as biomass, carbon capture, and recycling. This isn’t just about environmental responsibility—it’s a strategic move that could reinvigorate Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage.
However, progress toward this vision is stalled by regulatory barriers, slow adoption of renewable energy, and a lack of demand for sustainable products. To break these constraints and unleash the potential of renewable carbon, the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI) has released a comprehensive report outlining 10 policy proposals that could fast-track the transition.
A Roadmap to Defossilisation: What’s at Stake
The RCI’s vision for defossilising Europe’s chemical industry goes beyond environmental goals; it’s about future-proofing Europe’s industrial base. By transitioning to renewable carbon sources, Europe can bolster its long-term resilience, ensuring that the chemical sector remains competitive, both within Europe and in the global marketplace.
The heart of this transformation lies in a robust and actionable policy framework that can steer the industry toward renewable carbon solutions. Key proposals include:
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Mandatory targets for the use of renewable carbon in chemicals and materials to create tangible market demand.
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Integration of renewable carbon into existing regulations, such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and EU Emission Trading System (ETS), to align sustainability with industry growth.
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Increased access to renewable carbon feedstocks from waste, agriculture, and forestry, alongside innovative mechanisms to drive international trade of renewable materials.
Unlocking Innovation and Economic Potential
The shift toward renewable carbon isn’t just a green initiative—it’s a pathway to economic growth and innovation. By spearheading the development and adoption of renewable carbon technologies, the EU can maintain its leadership in the chemical industry, unlocking new economic opportunities while accelerating its climate neutrality goals.
The RCI’s policy proposals address the implementation gap, providing actionable steps to move from technological innovation to large-scale market adoption. As outlined by the EU Competitiveness Compass, Europe must create lead markets that reward early movers. The RCI’s proposals are designed to do just that—offering the tools, incentives, and regulations to create a thriving market for renewable carbon solutions.
The Path Forward: A Call to Action
To achieve this vision, EU policymakers must act decisively. The adoption of these proposals would enable the European chemical industry to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also secure its competitive edge in an evolving global economy. The future of the sector lies in its ability to pivot toward a renewable carbon future—one that supports both environmental and economic sustainability.
By embracing these bold steps, the EU can lead the world in the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable chemical industry, reaffirming its position as a global innovation hub.
