Technology Platform emphasises interdisciplinarity in roadmap for sustainable chemistry research

Key to achieving goals within sustainable chemistry is an interdisciplinary approach, the document emphasises: 'One point is clear throughout: chemistry is a key driver for innovation in many technologies and disciplines, providing the knowledge to improve and combine the benefits of traditional technologies with nano- and biotechnologies, leading to new and improved products,' states the executive summary. 'A clear interdisciplinary approach of the three technology areas, supported by the horizontal measures, is needed for a successful implementation of these challenges,' it continues.

According to Alfred Oberholz, Chair of the SusChem Board, the research agenda 'will help focus European research spending on the areas of chemistry that have the most potential to positively impact Europe's competitiveness, growth and sustainable development'.

Industrial biotechnology, or white biotechnology, is a new and emerging area of technology that is now entering its growth stage. It is having an increasing impact on the chemical sector as it enables the conversion of resources such as sugars and vegetable oils, as well as the efficient conversion of conventional raw materials, into a variety of chemical substances using biotechnological processes. Many of these substances cannot be created using synthetic methods.

The rapid development of new technologies is placing new demands on materials, making the discovery of new materials with tailored properties and the ability to process them extremely important for technological advancement. New materials are expected to also have a major impact on the environment by enabling energy efficiency and increasing the use of natural sustainable resources.

The third priority area, reaction and process design, is described as being 'of vital importance for the (bio) chemical industry'. As product life cycles are becoming shorter, some chemicals are becoming high volume commodity products. Profitability is therefore enhanced by maximising yield, increasing the use or reuse of secondary products and eliminating waste.

SusChem's research agenda also details three future scenarios illustrating potential concrete outcomes in three domains: health care; energy efficient housing and industrial bioprocesses.

The energy-generating home scenario demonstrates how smart materials and energy management can help reduce heat loss, improve energy efficiency and transform kinetic energy into electricity. According to the paper these technologies will turn tomorrow's home into an 'independent mini power plant capable of exceeding its own energy requirements'.

The second scenario illustrates how personalised health care could be used to meet the growing demands of an ageing society. Using nano and biotechnologies as well as materials, sustainable chemistry could improve and accelerate intervention with remote monitoring and intervention systems. It could also improve diagnostics through advanced medical imaging techniques, and reduce the intrusiveness of medical treatment overall.

The final scenario shows how sustainable chemistry could reduce dependence on fossil resources in the manufacturing sector. The paper depicts a time when industrial biotechnology will transform biological inputs into energy and materials, reducing emissions and waste in the process.

The research agenda promises that the best of chemistry is yet to come, and claims that chemistry will be at the heart of stimulating Europe's economy by providing new opportunities and wealth creation. As ever, continued investment is essential if Europe is to make the most of the opportunities available, and SusChem therefore makes the case for both research and innovation funding, and a business and regulatory framework that protects society while promoting enterprise.

For further information, please consult the following web address:
http://www.suschem.org/