Green Chemicals Blog
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A Circular Google
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Google reported in June its goal to be part of a circular economy by operating every part of its business in an environmentally sustainable way and disrupting the waste economy. According to the Google report, transitioning to a circular economy could generate US$4.5 trillion in new economic output by 2030. The company said it has…
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DOE funds plant genomics and microbes projects
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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $64 million in funding for 25 university-led genomics research projects on plants and microbes for bioenergy and bioproducts. The plant research—12 projects totaling $29 million over three years—focuses on expanding knowledge of gene function in plants to be grown for bioenergy and bioproducts. The aim is to…
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Applying sustainability to save the Amazon Rainforest
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It has been three weeks past when I first heard about the continuous massive fires in the Amazon rainforest and even though the blog usually focuses on sustainability within the chemicals and materials supply chain, I have to post this news in order for corporations to be aware of this devastating news and maybe help…
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Growing bio-based solvent market
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While the bio-based solvent market might have a set-back with the closing of Green Biologics bio-based n-butanol facility in Little Falls, Minnesota (I wrote a more comprehensive report about this in Tecnon OrbiChem’s July Biomaterials issue), consumers for these specialty chemicals continue to look for safer and less carbon emitter alternatives. Braskem announced last month…
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Companies aim to lessen burped methane from cows
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DSM has developed a compound for feed additive formulation that can lessen methane emitted by cows by 30%. Trials reportedly demonstrate a 30%-plus reduction in methane emissions without any adverse effects on animal welfare, feed consumption or performance. The new feed supplement can be easily added to the cow’s regular daily diet, and DSM said…
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UK calls for evidence on standards for bio-based and biodegradable plastics
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The UK Government is seeking evidence to identify gaps and to provide expert advice on: a) The overall sustainability of bio-based and biodegradable plastic products, particularly when in comparison with those made from other materials. This could include all aspects of a product’s life-cycle and will help in assessing whether technical standards or other related options…
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NRCan seeks Bio-Based Foam Insulation R&D
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Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is seeking the development of novel foam insulation products (spray foam and rigid foam board) that are bio-based (predominantly derived from domestic forest residue), and offer similar insulation values as petroleum-based products and are comparable in terms of cost. Sponsoring department: Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) Funding mechanism: Grant Opening date: June 27, 2019 Closing date: August 27,…