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Ready, set, here are the Changemakers!

Finalists Announced for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2025 on “Sustainable Chemistry & Climate Change”

The finalists of the €25,000 6th ISC3 Innovation Challenge – dedicated to innovations in Sustainable Chemistry and Climate Change – have been selected! After a rigorous evaluation process, an international jury of 36 experts from diverse and relevant fields identified the ten most promising start-ups from around the globe. A total of almost 100 start-ups from over 30 countries applied. The selected solutions range from cutting-edge chemical recycling and more sustainable polymers to renewable fuels, clean energy technologies, and low-carbon construction materials – each contributing to reducing emissions and advancing sustainability across industries and regions.

“This broad spectrum of innovations demostrates the great commitment of start-ups around the world, who are making a major contribution to solving some of the most pressing challenges of our time,"
emphasises Dr. Alexis Bazzanella, Director of the ISC3 Innovation Hub.

This year, the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) called for innovative solutions in Sustainable Chemistry that contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. These include, for example, the substitution of fossil-based feedstocks with non-food biomass or organic waste materials, technologies to reduce methane emissions in agriculture, soil carbon sequestration methods, water retention solutions, and heat-resilient construction materials.

Full press release

INNOVERDA: From ISC3 Start-up of the Month to Innovation Driver in the French Pharmaceutical Industry

In November 2019, INNOVERDA was recognized by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) for its contribution to Sustainable Chemistry, becoming the third Start-up of the Month out of more than 60 featured start-ups to date. Founded in 2017, the French Start-up has developed potential pathways for electrochemical production as an alternative to conventional industrial processes: Instead of using traditional chemical reagents to initiate reactions, INNOVERDA employs electrosynthesis, reducing energy consumption, harmful substances, and fossil raw materials while improving cost efficiency.

Thanks to this innovation, the start-up has quickly established itself as a recognized innovation provider with impactful projects in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries as well as the bioeconomy. Following its acquisition by DIVERCHIM CDMO, a leading French company specializing in the development and small-scale production of active ingredients, INNOVERDA’s expertise has become a key asset in advancing more environmentally friendly pharmaceutical manufacturing in France.

Full article

Innoverda

Sustainable Chemistry Meets Bioeconomy: A Perfect Match

Adrián Rodríguez (UN ECLAC) and Romina Laumann (ISC3) explored Germany’s biorefineries, uncovering how sustainable chemistry and bioeconomy can drive inclusive, green growth in Latin America.

Adrián Rodríguez is Chief of the Bioeconomy Unit at United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UN ECLAC). In September last year, he and Romina Laumann, Director of Strategic Alliances at the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3), visited Germany for a study trip on bioeconomy for regional development.

Full article

Hand holding light bulb against nature on green leaf with icons energy sources for renewable, sustainable development.

ISC3 is looking for innovators in the field of Sustainable Chemistry & Climate Change ISC3 is looking for innovators in the field of Sustainable Chemistry & Climate Change

Apply now for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2025 - International start-up competition is endowed with EUR 25,000.

29.11.2024

What innovative ideas in Sustainable Chemistry can help mitigate and adapt to climate change? This is the central question posed by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) in the Innovation Challenge 2025. Start-ups and innovators from around the world are invited to apply with their solutions in the field of Sustainable Chemistry for this annual competition, which once again offers a total prize pool of EUR 25,000. The application period is open until the 3rd of March 2025.

Full press release

ISC3

Navigating the Future of Sustainable Chemistry and Textiles: Navigating the Future of Sustainable Chemistry and Textiles:

12.11.2024

ISC3 bridges global start-ups and investors at the Impact Festival in Frankfurt am Main – Start-up Dimpora from Switzerland wins ISC3 Innovation Challenge

How can innovations in Sustainable Chemistry drive a more sustainable textile industry? Which factors play a role for investors and potential customers for successful sustainability-driven start-ups? And what are future promising trends in Sustainable Chemistry in the textile sector? These pivotal questions were at the forefront of the 6th ISC3 Investor Forum 2024, held during the Impact Festival on October 30th and 31st at Forum Messe Frankfurt. Answers were provided not only by international experts from various fields, but also by five start-ups who presented their ideas at the Innovation Challenge, which was once again one of the highlights of the Investor Forum. What they all have in common is that their innovations contribute to a more sustainable textile industry and are supported by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3). But in the end, there could only be one winner: the Swiss start-up Dimpora with its groundbreaking PFAS-free textile membrane.

Full press release

A diverse group of international people stand on stage with S-shaped awards and wave happily to the audience.

DNA-Driven Traceability System for a More Sustainable Textile Industry

23.10.2024

The Turkish start-up DNACotton is one of the five finalists in the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2024, focusing on “Innovations in Sustainable Chemistry for Textiles” – We present the start-ups in an exclusive series. In October, they will pitch their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum as part of the Impact Festival in Frankfurt.

As concerns grow regarding production methods, waste of resources and the fast fashion, consumers increasingly seek transparency about the origins of their clothing, the manufacturing processes involved and the materials utilized. Achieving seamless traceability from raw material sourcing to retail, along with effective monitoring, presents significant challenges for the textile sector. DNACottons’s groundbreaking DNABarkod technology offers a viable solution. This blockchain-based traceability system employs genetic labeling of products throughout various production stages. Each raw material is assigned a unique genetic identifier, enabling clear identification at any point along the value chain.

Full press release

DNACotton
Investor Forum Visual focusing on DNACotton

International Start-ups Unveil Sustainable Chemistry Innovations at the Impact Festival in Frankfurt a.M., Germany

16.10.2024

Ten groundbreaking start-ups are set to showcase their innovative ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum, culminating in the Award Ceremony for the Innovation Challenge 2024, with a prize of €25,000.

What can attendees expect from this year’s Investor Forum of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3)? Innovations range from leather alternative made from fruit waste in Mexico, to advanced textile recycling processes from Sweden, to PFAS-free textile membrane from Switzerland, to bio-based and biodegradable textile and leather chemicals developed in India, and to unique genetic identifiers for products developed in Türkiye. These outstanding ideas will be presented by the finalists of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge who are all focused on driving solutions in Sustainable Chemistry and Textiles.

Full press release

ISC3
Banner announcing the investor forum.

High-quality, High-performance Biomaterials from Fruit Waste for a more Sustainable Future in the Fashion Industry

09.10.2024

The start-up Polybion from Mexico is one of the five finalists in the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2024 on the topic “Innovations in Sustainable Chemistry for Textiles” – We present the start-ups in an exclusive series. In October, they will pitch their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum as part of the Impact Festival in Frankfurt.

Most consumer goods made from leather are still traditionally of animal origin but are now often also produced artificially from crude oil. Today, both production processes face numerous challenges in terms of sustainability and the circular economy. They generally require a high amount of energy, often aggressive chemical treatments and recycling is hardly possible. With its next-generation material made from fruit waste, the Mexican start-up Polybion has developed an animal-free and ecologically valuable alternative. Importantly, the so-called next-generation materials can only have a significant impact as direct substitutes for conventional products such as leather, silk, fur, down or wool if they are affordable, competitive and available on a mass scale. And this is exactly what Polybion promises with its leather alternative Celium.

Full press release

Revolutionary Textile Membrane for a More Sustainable Outdoor Clothing Industry

25.09.2024

Swiss company Dimpora AG is one of the five finalists in the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2024 on the topic "Innovations in Sustainable Chemistry for Textiles". We introduce the start-ups in an exclusive series. In October, they will pitch their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum during the Impact Festival in Frankfurt.

Waterproof clothing is essential for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. Whether hiking, cycling, skiing, or simply going for a walk, the right gear can make the difference between an exhilarating outdoor experience and a wet, uncomfortable memory. However, in recent years, the waterproof properties of membranes in outdoor clothing have been heavily debated due to the use of PFAS [PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – also known as PFC (per- and polyfluorinated chemicals)] and solvents, which can be released into the environment during the production of the chemical and the use of the clothing. The main issue: most membranes are not recyclable because the chemicals and textiles cannot be separated. Additionally, PFAS do not occur naturally and are not degradable, which is why they are often referred to as "forever chemicals."

Full press release

portrait of a man on a blue background introducing the investor forum.

How Textile Waste is being Turned into New Resources for a more Sustainable Future for the Fashion Industry

18.09.2024

The Start-up Renasens from Sweden is one of the 5 finalists on the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2024 on the topic of ‘Innovations in Sustainable Chemistry for Textiles’ - We present the start-ups in an exclusive series. In October, they will pitch their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum as part of the Impact Festival in Frankfurt.

The growing world population, not least in connection with fast fashion, has led to a massive increase in textile production and thus textile waste. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the fashion and textile industry is currently responsible for around 8% of all carbon emissions. About 8% of European microplastics released to oceans – globally, this figure is estimated at 16-35% – and 20% of all global wastewater are from synthetic textiles, as reported by the European environment agency. This means the industry has the second largest impact on environmental pollution worldwide. One way of counteracting this trend is recycling. However, there is currently no technology in the world that can fully utilize recycled polyester or cellulose fibers to produce new garments. The properties of the recycled fibers are often impaired, meaning that up to 50% virgin cellulose or polyester fibers must be added to meet the quality requirements of the fabrics. As a result, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation 2017, the proportion of recycled fibers in the fashion and textile industry worldwide is less than 1%. This is even though recycling textiles is one of the most important solutions for more sustainable practices in the industry.

Full press release

There is a more sustainable way! With bio-based and biodegradable textile and leather chemicals

29.08.2024

Indian startup SCHUTZEN revolutionizes the fashion industry – Nominated for the ISC3 Innovation Award 2024

Schutzen is one of the five finalists for the ISC3 Innovation Award 2024 on the topic of "Innovations in Sustainable Chemistry for Textiles" – We introduce the startups in an exclusive series. In October, they will pitch their ideas at the Investor Forum of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) during the Impact Festival in Frankfurt.

According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the fashion industry is the second largest contributor to global pollution, accounting for 10% of it, just behind the petroleum industry. One reason for this is water-intensive production processes that use chemicals, leading to global warming and toxic wastewater. Reckless chemical design has resulted in non-biodegradable and toxic waste increasingly ending up in nature. According to SCHUTZEN, nearly every day a new toxic substance is discovered, but the startup's innovation from India aims to change that.

Full press release

ISC3
Raj Tanna (Founder & Managing Director Schutzen) @ ISC3 Investor Forum as part of Impact Festival 2024

Ready, set, here are the Changemakers!

02.07.2024

The ISC3 has selected it`s finalists for the Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Textiles

The finalists of the €25,000 5th ISC3 Innovation Challenge, which was looking for innovations in the fields of Sustainable Chemistry and Textiles, have been announced! A jury of 23 international experts selected the five finalists from a large number of outstanding applications from all over the world. This year, the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) called on start-ups to apply with innovative solutions from all fields related to Sustainable Chemistry, that can contribute to a more sustainable textile industry. Examples include environmentally benign production, alternative materials and feedstock, waste minimization and recycling, and alternative business models.

An international jury consisting of independent reviewers, including representatives of the ISC3 partner organisations and external experts, especially from the textile sector, ensured a professional evaluation of all international submissions at a very high level.

"The large number of start-ups registered and the feedback from the start-ups we have already supported show that the ISC3 Innovation Challenge is a valuable opportunity for young companies in the field of Sustainable Chemistry. Visionary innovators should receive the support they need to realise their creative approaches and innovative solutions, because we as a society have the same goal: to contribute to a more sustainable future,"
thanks Dr Alexis Bazzanella, Director of the ISC3 Innovation Hub, for the jury's expert assessments.

Full press release

ISC3
Innovation Challenge Banner

Sustainable Chemistry Innovations Shaping the Future of the Process Industry

25.06.2024

Sustainable Chemistry provides solutions to the challenges faced by the process industry. Sustainable textile dyes, alternatives to microplastics, innovative recycling technologies, and AI-supported applications are becoming increasingly important. This is one of the outcomes of ACHEMA 2024. Another key takeaway: Start-ups like Vienna Textile Lab (Austria), BIOWEG (Germany), Plastale (Egypt), Mavisol (Netherlands), and Banyan Nation (India) can make a significant global contribution with their innovative ideas and developments. At the invitation of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3), these start-ups showcased their innovations as co-exhibitors at the ISC3 booth and during the "ISC3 and Friends Pitch Slam," held in collaboration with Forum Startup Chemie (Germany), 5-HT (Germany), and Brightlands (Netherlands) on the EY Green Innovation Stage, to a global audience.

5 Start-ups, 5 Valuable Experiences for ISC3 and the Process Industry

“The success of the start-ups presented by ISC3 at ACHEMA 2024, particularly at the Pitch Slam, has confirmed that our Global Start-up Service offers a unique opportunity to advance Sustainable Chemistry innovations in the process industry,”
stated Dr. Alexis Bazzanella, Director of the ISC3 Innovation Hub. The ISC3 Innovation Hub’s Start-up Service is the world's first program to provide comprehensive support for innovators in Sustainable Chemistry, offering direct access to talent, experts, stakeholders, and collaborations.The solutions presented by the start-ups at ACHEMA offer significant environmental benefits for the process industry, such as waste reduction, emission lowering, and enhanced sustainability standards. These advancements are beneficial not only for the environment but also for meeting the growing consumer and regulatory demands for greener and more sustainable products.

Full press release

Claudia Rothenberger
group picture

Sustainable Chemistry Innovations for the Process Industry

20.05.2024

From textile dyes derived from microorganisms, to image processing and learning systems for PETpreforms, to the conversion of organic waste into biodegradable products – the innovative ideaspresented by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) at this year's ACHEMA inFrankfurt from 10 to 14 June are as diverse as Sustainable Chemistry itself. In total, fourteen start-ups willbe on hand to present their solutions for a sustainable world.

Every day, five young companies will be presenting solutions for a more sustainable world at the booth(D2, Hall 6.0), some of which have already been awarded Start-up of the Month in the frame of the ISC3“Global Start-up Service” support programme. ISC3 is also organising the Start-up Slam together withthree partner organisations - Forum Startup Chemie, 5-HT (Germany) and Brightlands (Netherlands) - on12 June from 11.15 a.m.: Fourteen start-ups from India, Egypt, Austria, Spain, Switzerland, theNetherlands and Germany will present their ideas on the EY Green Innovation Stage (Hall 6.0).

Full article

Zila Bioworks – Revolutionizing Plastics

15.05.2024

The American start-up Zila Bioworks is transforming hard-tech manufacturing with drastically cleaner, greener chemistry, while supporting rural communities.

Epoxy resins are a type of industrial plastic used in fibre-reinforced composites, coatings, and adhesives. Zila uses vegetable oils, like hempseed and linseed oil, to create a high-performance, drop-in bio-epoxy replacement for a number of different applications. Not only does Zila drastically reduce the carbon footprint of epoxies, their technology also enables recyclability of epoxy composites. Zila formulates its bio-epoxy resin systems, making it an attractive drop-in solution for manufacturers. For these reasons, Zila Bioworks has been chosen as the Start-up of the Month for May 2024 by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3).

Full article

ZILA BioWorks
Two men in lab coats and face mask in front of a metal, cylindric bio-reactor
Evan Bouchier (COO & Co-founder) and Ereddad (member of associated research team) in front of a reactor

Environment Week 2024: Prof Klaus Kümmerer Discusses Sustainable Chemistry

14.05.2024

At the invitation of Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), Prof. Klaus Kümmerer will represent the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaboration Center (ISC3) at the “Week of the Environment” (German: Woche der Umwelt) event on 4 and 5 June 2024 in Berlin. As part of the innovation show with 190 exhibitors, more than 70 specialist forums and exciting discussions with high-ranking experts, the Director of the ISC3 Research & Education Hub will be one of three dialogue partners on the topic of 'Sustainable chemistry for a sustainable future' at the end of the second day.

“Sustainable Chemistry must scale by default, not in commercial scaling, but in material, biological and ecological scaling. Before a chemical is used in industry, we must know how it will behave worldwide under all conceivable climatic conditions. How many resources are required if only one part is produced but a million parts? What does this mean in ten, 50 or 100 years when the material ends up in the environment? What by-products are produced, and what effects do they have if disposed of improperly? In addition, Sustainable Chemistry also asks about social and ethical aspects,” says Prof Kümmerer with a view to the discussion. At the same time he will also take a look at the practice of science and present best practice examples that show the contribution that Sustainable Chemistry makes in various areas of everyday life.

Full press release

Neptunus Biotech Neptunus Biotech - The Power of the Ocean in Benefit of the Soil

17.04.2024

The Mexican start-up Neptunus Biotech extracts bioactive compounds from marine microalgae which are used as a bio-stimulant for crops. The assimilation of these molecules makes the plants more resistant to environmental stress.

Besides fixing CO2, the extraction process is green and following sustainability principles, as it does not include any heavy chemicals or solvents, thus protecting farmers and consumers and the environment. For these reasons, Neptunus Biotech has been chosen as one of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2023 finalists, and is featured as the ISC3 Start-up of the Month for April 2024.

To tackle the increasingly poor performance of crops due to environmental stress the start-up developed a set of bio-stimulants based on extract of microalgae from strains of different species. The specific formulations are applied to specific stages of development of the crop. The different solutions either focus on initial stages of plant development, plant growth, flowering or deficiencies in nutrition, that are also related to stress. This stress can be environmental, such as drought, extreme temperature or mechanical and chemical damage by machinery, synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

Full article

Iram López
Tall young man with beard in white lab coat smiling into the camera, standing between photobioreactors (many horizontally stacked glas tubes filled with green substance)
Leopoldo Herrera (founder & director) between photobioreactors

Ecorich Solutions – Turning Waste Into Food

18.03.2024

African start-up Ecorich Solutions uses an innovative technology called “the Wastebot decomposer machine” to convert organic waste into organic fertilizer. The process involves the breakdown of organic waste using soil based microbial enzymes under a temperature regulated mechanism.

Their goal is to minimise the environmental pollution caused by greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the decomposition of waste in landfill sites, and to support local farmers and women in the informal waste management sector. For these reasons, Ecorich Solutions has been chosen as one of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2023 finalists, and is featured as the ISC3 Start-up of the Month for March 2024.

The technology developed by Ecorich decomposes food waste and thus reduces the number of landfills that release toxic gases into the atmosphere. Up to now, the start-up has reduced urban waste by 40% by collecting kitchen waste from households.

Read the full article here.

Ecorich Solutions
Two african women dressed in Ecorich´s company shirts surrounded by palms and greenery, smiling into camera
Joyce Rugano (CEO, Founder & Managing director) and Ruth Wanjiru (field representative).

BIOWEG – Revolutionising the Future of Bio-Ingredients

19.02.2024

The German start-up Bioweg found a way to replace petroleum-based chemicals with innovative bio-alternatives through fermentation and green chemistry. The processing of waste products results in bacterial cellulose, which serves as a substitute for synthetic polymers and thus has diverse potential applications.

Their innovation not only reduces the amount of microplastic, therefore reducing the carbon footprint of many products, but the environmentally friendly production process also promotes the circular economy. For these reasons, Bioweg has been chosen as the ISC3 Start-up of the Month for February 2024.

Read the full article here.

BIOWEG
two indian men smiling at camera, arms corossed, field/ hill in background
Prateek Mahalwar (left, CEO & Founder of Bioweg): “Our world is not just facing a crisis of microplastics but also of waste management and the food and agricultural industries are major contributors to it." Pictured with Srinivas Karuturi (right, COO & Founder)

ISC3 Director Prof. Kümmerer Receives Federal Cross of Merit

17.01.2024

International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre congratulates its Head of the Research & Education Hub.

Great honour for professor Klaus Kümmerer. The renowned scientist from Leuphana University Lüneburg (Germany) and Director of the Research & Education Hub of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit on Ribbon yesterday in Hanover (Germany). Prof. Kümmerer received the highest award of the Federal Republic of Germany for the development of the benign-by-design approach, his decades of research achievements, the promotion of young talents in the field of Sustainable Chemistry and his commitment to raising public awareness of a sustainable future, for which he has been involved in several national and international committees for many years.

Read the full press release here.

MWK Niedersachsen
Professor Kümmerer and Minister Mohrs smiling at the camera.

Fighting Global Warming With Tamarind Polymers

23.11.2023

Schutzen Chemical Group inspired by ISC3 for Sustainable Chemistry – Start-up wins ISC3 Innovation Award 2023

23.11.2023

If South Mumbai is flooded in seven years, 20 million people will lose their homes. The number of cases of cancer in children will rise by 37 percent this year. The mountains of garbage in his homeland are getting bigger and bigger. As one of eight finalists in the Innovation Challenge 2023 of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3), Raj Tanna highlights the consequences of increasing plastic production from fossil raw materials with three alarming facts: global warming, the release of harmful substances and poor end-of-life options. With his start-up, Schutzen Chemical Group, the founder is researching and developing biobased and biodegradable solutions with polymers from the fruit seeds of the tamarind tree, which can replace many fossil raw materials such as silicone, acrylates or polyurethane in certain industries. For this contribution to Sustainable Chemistry, the international expert jury of the Innovation Challenge honoured the start-up with the ISC3 Innovation Award 2023, endowed with 15,000 euros.

Read the full press release here.

ISC3
three men and one woman smiling at the camera.

Innovation Challenge 2024

16.11.2023

ISC3 is looking for innovative solutions in the field of Sustainable Chemistry for textiles - Innovation Challenge 2024 endowed with 25,000 euros

Start-ups become changemakers - apply now!

Which innovative ideas in Sustainable Chemistry have the potential to improve the textile sector? This is the question posed by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) in the Innovation Challenge 2024. Start-ups and innovators from all over the world can now apply with their answers and solutions in the field of Sustainable Chemistry for the annual ISC3 innovation competition, which is once again endowed with a total of EUR 25,000. The application period started on 1 November 2023 and the ISC3 will accept applications until 1 March 2024.

"Sustainable Chemistry plays a crucial role in transforming the textile industry to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. For this reason, we want to address, reward and promote Sustainable Chemistry start-ups and their original solutions for the textile sector as part of this year's ISC3 Innovation Challenge,"
says Dr Alexis Bazzanella, Director of the ISC3 Innovation Hub.

Read the full press release here.

Makabi Agritech - Sustainable Agriculture and Responsible Food Production

13.11.2023

Article on Makabi Agritech, ISC3 Start-up of the Month November 2023, in CHEManager International

The Croatian start-up Makabi has created a 3-in-1 encapsulation technology for plant protection and nutrition and controlled release of bioactive components.

With their innovative approach in green chemistry and sustainable agricultural production, Makabi contributes to the reduction of environmental pollution, mitigates climate change and increases the biopotential of produced food. For these reasons Makabi Agritech was chosen as the ISC3 start-up of the month for November 2023.

CHEManager International

Read the ISC3 News article here.

Read the ISC3 Start-up of the month article here.

Ivana Rajković Pavlić
four people, some in lab coats, in lab, looking at camera, smiling. One of them is Founder Marko Vincekovic

Aquamet: Innovative Approach for Sustainable Aquaculture

31.10.2023

Article on Aquamet, ISC3 Start-up of the Month October 2023, in CHEManager International

The Ghanian start-up Aquamet provides a sustainable and affordable solution to maximize fish farmers´ yield.

Aquamet developed a device to measure water quality parameters crucial to aquaculture and an accompanying app to assist fish farmers in their daily tasks to ensure the best water quality at all times. For their innovative approach to minimize loss of fish and thus reducing the carbon footprint, while also having a positive social impact, Aquamet has been selected as ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2023 Finalist and the ISC3 Start-up of the Month for October 2023.

Read the article here:

CHEManager International

Read the ISC3 News article here.

Aquamet
Group picture.

CHEManager Presents the two Study Programmes of Leuphana University in Lüneburg

18.10.2023

CHEManager presents the two study programmes of Leuphana University in Lüneburg, developed in close cooperation with the ISC3 and Leuphana Professional School: M. Sc. Sustainable Chemistry and MBA Sustainable Chemistry Management, two globally unique study programmes.

CHEManager Germany

Read the ISC3 News article here.

The Leuphana Campus building with students outdoors

Defining Sustainable Chemistry—an Opportune Exercise?

13.10.2023

Publication of Prof. Vania Zuin Zeidler in "Science"

I lost my elephant some days ago. Actually, it was an elephant keychain. This was a special present given by a Thai student who attended the Summer School on Sustainable Chemistry for Sustainable Development in July 2023, at Leuphana University, Germany, supported by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3). This event focused on the foundations and applications of sustainable chemistry in tackling the climate crisis, a top priority requiring responsible and coordinated transnational actions on many fronts, including through high-level scientific knowledge. The chemical industry is fundamental for providing goods for other industries such as construction, pharmaceuticals, agriculture–food processing, and electronics, with a global material production capacity of around 2.3 billion tonnes in 2020 and sales of chemicals projected at almost $11.3 trillion annually by 2030. Such growth reflects the importance of the science and industrial applications, leading to remarkable opportunities to promote a better life for all, considering the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, there are also challenges and risks stemming from the energy demands, greenhouse gas emissions, and toxicity of many chemicals and their transformation products, as well as the lack of proper chemical and waste management programs in various countries.

[...]

"Science"

Read the ISC3 News article here.

Smiling woman with nature scenery in the background

Promoting Impact Investment in Sustainable Chemistry Innovations

06.10.2023

ISC3 connects international start-ups and investors at the fifth World Chemicals Conference (ICCM5) - Indian Start-up Schutzen wins ISC3 Innovation Challenge

What does it take to establish and maintain sustainability as a measurable value for companies? What conditions need to be created for ideas in Sustainable Chemistry to flourish? And which start-ups worldwide promise the greatest impact in this field with their innovations? These and other central questions about innovations for Sustainable Chemistry were answered at the Investor Forum 2023 of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3). The fifth edition took place live as part of the 5th World Chemicals Conference ICCM5 in Bonn. International representatives from politics, industry, NGOs, science, environmental associations and investors met 18 international start-ups to talk about meaningful cooperation and to award the most innovative ideas and solutions in the field of Sustainable Chemistry at the finals of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge, which is endowed with a total of 25,000 euros.

Read the full press release here.

Peter Nierhoff
group picture outside on stairs.

ISC3 Feature in Royal Society of Chemistry Podcast

09.10.2023

Our Policy Director Anna Isabel Becker and our Science and Innovation Director Claudio Cinquemani were interviewed for a podcast episode by the Royal Society of Chemistry on “UNEP framework for a planet free of harm from chemicals!” - live from ICCM5!

“The social dimension in international chemical management must be kept in mind in future SAICM processes for example by increasing the inclusion of marginalised groups such as indigenious, women, children, youth and disabled and that would be leaving no one behind as we understand it.”
- Claudio CinquemaniListen to the podcast.

Professor Dr. Klaus Kümmerer was Featured in the MEZZANIN Podcast

04.10.2023

Prof. Dr. Klaus Kümmerer was a guest in the MEZZANIN podcast episode “Von vorne schon richtig Denken!” to discuss how the M.Sc. Sustainable Chemistry teaches the knowledge urgently needed to transform the chemical industry towards sustainability and how they apply it in their daily working routine.

ISC3’s Managing Director Dr. Thomas Wanner was Featured in Deutschlandfunk

29.09.2023

Our Managing Director Dr. Thomas Wanner was featured in Deutschlandfunk and talked about Sustainable Chemistry and our annual Investor Forum!

“I was very impressed by the multitude of creative ideas of our start-ups today and the great interest from investors”
- Dr. Thomas Wanner German Original in Deutschlandfunk
Peter Nierhoff
man holding a speech

Plastale: Towards Sustainable Development Through Material Innovation and Circular Economy

12.09.2023

Plastale: Towards Sustainable Development through Material Innovation and Circular Economy, ISC3 Start-up of the Month September 2023, in CHEManager International

The Egypt-based start-up Plastale produces composite materials for different applications out of local plastic and crop waste. Their recycling process aims to be energy and cost efficient, and the start-up focuses also on creating social impact through collaboration with local communities and local waste collectors. For this reason, International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) features Plastale as the ISC3 Start-up of the Month for September 2023.

CHEManager International

Read the ISC3 Start-up of the month article here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here.

Plastale
Logo of Plastale - a green triangle

International Start-ups Bring Innovations in the Field of Sustainable Chemistry to the World Chemical Conference ICCM5 in Bonn, Germany

04.09.2023

30 Start-ups present their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum – final pitch for the Innovation Challenge 2023 worth EUR 25,000.

Leather made from microorganisms instead of animal skin produced in Peru. A material made from locally sourced starch as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic packaging from Colombia. Sunglasses made from recycled chip bags in India. Skin and hair care products based on proteins extracted from fish waste from Ethiopia. These are four of the innovative ideas with which 18 Start-ups live on site and a total of 30 online are presenting their ideas and themselves at the Investor Forum 2023 of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3).

What's unique about this year's event with Start-ups from Europe, Africa, Latin America, North America and Asia is that it will be held live as part of the 5th World Chemical Conference (ICCM5) on September 28th in Bonn.

Read the full press release here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here.

Fifth session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5)

01.09.2023

The 5th session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), organised by UNEP and hosted by the government of Germany who holds the presidency of this fifth session of the Conference, will take place from 25 to 29 September 2023 at the World Conference Center Bonn (WCCB) with a High-Level Segment (HLS) on 28 and 29 September 2023.

Click here for more information.

For further information on the ICCM5 and to register, please visit: SAICM.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Interview With Klaus Kümmerer in CHEManager: The Goals of Sustainable Chemistry and the Limits of Circular Economy

01.08.2023

In this interview, Klaus Kümmerer talks about the importance of Sustainable Chemistry for the circular economy and how both can contribute to solving the major challenges now and for the future.

Read more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

The ISC3 has Selected it's Finalists for the Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture

25.07.2023

Frankfurt am Main/Deutschland

The fourth ISC3 Innovation Challenge that called for innovations in the field of Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture has it's finalists! The international jury of experts chose eight finalists from a large number of top-notch applications from five continents.This year, the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) was looking for innovative solutions from all fields related to Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture, such as efficient use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, nutrient recovery, precision farming, water management, crop protection, valorisation of agricultural waste, shelf-life extension solutions and solutions related to renewable energy and agriculture.

Furthermore, on the basis of their presentation in the end of the pitch training, the selected finalists will be given the chance to compete to win EUR 15.000 and pitch on September 28th, 2023 during the upcoming ISC3 Investor Forum 2023 that will take place live in Bonn, Germany as an official side-event at the 5th World Chemicals Conference (ICCM5). The ISC3 Investor Forum will close with the Innovation Challenge Award Ceremony, where, in addition to the main winner, two additional solutions will be awarded for their Impact, each with EUR 5.000.

More information: Investor Forum (isc3.org)

Registration for the Investor Forum: Registration link for general attendees (for all stakeholders)
here

Registration link for exhibitors (ISC3 start-ups and investors)
(for investors and ISC3-start-ups planning on setting up a free virtual booth for matchmaking)
here

WCCB/ UNITAR-SAICM
For physical access into WCCB building where the ISC3 Investor Forum will take place, a second registration is needed:
here
– free of charge

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ISC3
Banner announcing the ISC3 Innovation Challenge - Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture. It shows a small picture of an agricultural area and four people discussing something.

Block Solutions Oy: Creating a Better Tomorrow With Sustainable and Affordable Way of Building Houses

20.07.2023

Article on Block Solutions Oy, ISC3 Start-up of the Month July 2023, in CHEManager International

Read the article here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in July 2023, click here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ECOPAPEL – Biodegradable and reusable paper-based food packaging as an alternative to plastic

21.06.2023

Article on ECOPAPEL, ISC3 Start-up of the Month June 2023, in CHEManager International

Read the article here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in June 2023, click here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Press release: “Opening Ceremony of the Christian Doppler Laboratory for Cellulose High-Tech Materials”

09.06.2023

One of the winners of our Audience Voting Award of 2022, Vienna Textile Lab, is one of four industry partners to fund the project Christian Doppler Laboratory for Cellulose High-Tech Materials. This project enables applied basic research in the field of green chemistry and circular value chains.

Click here to read the full press release.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Publication in CHEManager: Cosmetic products from fish waste ISC3 supports Ethiopian start-up for sustainable, bio-based collagen production

06.06.2023

The idea for the Ethiopian start-up Ray Cosmetics came to CEO and founder Rewla Ephrem and her like minded partners Yared Assefa and Abrehame Dessie at the picturesque Lake Tana in Bahirdar. Supported by ISC3, the start-up produces bio-based collagen from fish skin.

The start-up's name contains the Amharic word "Raey", which means "to see", and stands for the fact that beauty can be found in the most impossible places if you only look properly. Ray Cosmetics has really looked and as a result uses fish skin and fish scale waste from Lake Tana and other local fish processing plants as raw material for the production of natural-based skin and hair care products. According to the Ethiopian Fish Corporation, the annual fish waste such as skins, scales and bones discarded around Lake Tana amounts to about 16.7 tonnes per year. Ray Cosmetics extracts 1 L of its product for the cosmetics industry from eight to ten average-sized fish skins, including scales. The scales and skins extracted from the fish waste are first washed several times with distilled water and soaked. In the extraction process, they are then treated with a series of chemical and technical processes.Read the full article in German on CHEManager.Read the full article in German on CHEManager.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

RAY Cosmetics
two men and one women standing in front of products

Wöhler Award for Sustainable Chemistry goes to Klaus Kümmerer

23.05.2023

At the GDCh-Wissenschaftsforum (WiFo), Professor Dr Klaus Kümmerer (Leuphana University Lüneburg) receives the Wöhler Award for Sustainable Chemistry for his pioneering research achievements in the field of Sustainable Chemistry.

Read more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Maximilian Menche
Men presenting

CHEManager International: Climate-Positive Power

17.05.2023

CHEManager International has featured an interview with Felix Fischer, co-founder, managing director and COO of Reverion. Reverion has been selected as our Start-up of the Month for May 2022.

Read the interview here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in May 2022, click here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Ashaya: Increasing the Value of Waste & Creating Social Impact

15.05.2023

Article on Ashaya, ISC3 Start-up of the Month May 2023, in CHEManager International

Read the article here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in May 2023, click here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

The “Climate Action Programme for Chemical Industry (CAPCI)” and its Partners

06.05.2023

The Climate Action Programme for the Chemical Industry (CAPCI) and its partners present their main learning experiences providing an overview on the strong linkages between chemistry and climate change. This publication seeks to inform and inspire the readers on the big potentials of the chemical industry for implementing GHG mitigation measures and contributing to tackle climate change.

Read more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

E[co]work - Enabling safer, sound and inclusive e-waste management

02.05.2023

Growing amounts of electronic waste (e-waste) and the unsafe manner of recycling by informal workers in this sector pose substantial challenges around the world. Especially in India, given the large volume generated as well as the existing and upcoming regulation around e-waste necessitates new ways of addressing the topic to enable a safe and sustainable future, both for labourers involved as well as consumers and producers. E[co]work provides an attractive alternative for informal workers in the e-waste dismantling sector of Delhi. An innovative shared space for dismantling e-waste safely and in conformity to regulations is expected to open its doors in the coming months . It allows for efficient recycling of end-of-life electric devices while providing multiple useful services such as marketplace connecting buyers and sellers as well as business support services such as insurance.

Read more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

AppCyclers: Innovative Approach for e-Waste Management

24.04.2023

Article on AppCyclers, ISC3 Start-up of the Month April 2023, in CHEManager International

Read the article here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in April 2023, click here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Sustainable Chemistry should be the guiding principle for the upcoming ICCM5

13.04.2023

International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) is hosting a new online event series “Sustainable Chemistry SPOTLIGHTS”

In view of the 5th International Conference for Chemicals Management (ICCM5), the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) opens the discussion on the importance of Sustainable Chemistry as a holistic approach to make products and manufacturing processes safer for the environment and human health. The new online live event series "Sustainable Chemistry SPOTLIGHTS" focuses on four core topics within Sustainable Chemistry: Innovation, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building as well as the Policy and Stakeholder Dialogue. Multilateral organisations, the private sector, NGOs and experts from various fields discuss sustainable ideas and approaches from different perspectives. Start-ups present innovations and best practice examples. The common goal is to contribute to a sustainable world through Sustainable Chemistry.

Read more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

CHEManager International: Production Process for Personalized Clothing Made from Mycelium

24.03.2023

Article on ISC3 Start-up of the Month March 2023 in CHEManager International

With an innovative new production process, the Dutch start-up Mycotex allows for personalized clothing made from mycelium. With this contribution to sustainable chemistry the start-up aims to create a completely new supply chain for the fashion industry, an alternative to weaving, cutting and sewing.

Mycotex' manufacturing method has three main benefits: First, the possibility to set up an automated manufacturing system which allows for producing on demand. Second, it provides a fully sustainable supply chain: On an ecological level with food-grade natural ingredients that are not harmful to the environment, but also on a social level by not exposing employees to hazardous chemicals and secure regulated working hours. The third advantage is unlimited design freedom for brands.

Read the article here

CHEManager Online

Read the ISC3 News Article here

MYCOTEX
a woman smiling towards the camera

CHEManager International: Silicone Recycling without Loss of Quality

20.03.2023

Interview with Klara Yoon, Tina Rose and Stephan Enthaler, New Dawn

Berlin, Germany-based start-up company New Dawn Silicones —formerly known under the name We Are Galaktika — has developed a resource-efficient chemical recycling technology that allows silicones to be reused without loss of quality. With this idea in the field of sustainable chemistry, the start-up addresses one of the most pressing environmental problems. The use of innovative technology makes it possible to use end-of-life silicones as the starting material for new, high-quality silicones, thus contributing to a circular economy that saves energy and resources while also having a more positive climate footprint compared to the use of new raw material. The founders are supported by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3).

Read the Interview here

CHEManager Online

Read the ISC3 News Article here

We are Galaktika
two women smiling into the camera
We are Galaktika
man with a slight smile looking into the camera

EL MAT Sustainable Solutions Turns “Waste” Water into Valuable Products

27.02.2023

Article on EL MAT Sustainable Solutions, ISC3 Start-up of the Month February 2023, in CHEManager International

Read the article here

CHEManager International

To read the whole success story of the ISC3 Start-up of the Month in February 2023, click here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Transition pathway for the chemical industry

31.01.2023

In January 2023, the European Commission published the transition pathway for the chemical industry. The pathway is an actionable plan co-developed by the European Commission with other member states, chemical industry stakeholders, NGOs and other interested parties. It identifies the actions and conditions needed to achieve the green and digital transition and improve resilience in the chemical industry, in line with the updated EU industrial strategy.

Learn more here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

READY, SET, BE THE CHANGEMAKER!

15.12.2022

ISC3 INVITES TO THE INNOVATION CHALLENGE 2023 – CALL FOR INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS IN THE FIELD OF SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND AGRICULTURE

Which Sustainable Chemistry innovations can benefit Agriculture? The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) launched its new call for applications for the next ISC3 Innovation Challenge endowed with 25,000 EUR in total. The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2023 addresses innovators from around the world who are active in developing innovative solutions linked to Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture.

Contest applications will be accepted from 0:00 a.m. (CET) December 15th, 2022 until 0:00 a.m. (CEST) April 3, 2023 at the latest.

Application: ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2023 in Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture (evalato.com)

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ISC3

Book recommendation for a Circular Economy: The Impossibilities of the Circular Economy Separating Aspirations from Reality

22.11.2022

Circular Economy (CE) is one of the important concepts in the context of sustainability. Unfortunately, there are many misunderstandings and false expectations in the context. A book that comprehensively presents the opportunities and limitations of CE has recently been published: The Impossibilities of the Circular Economy Separating Aspirations from Reality Edited by Harry Lehmann, Christoph Hinske, Victoire de Margerie, Aneta Slaveikova Nikolova.

It is open access and can be downloaded here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Fostering impact investment and awarding Sustainable Chemistry innovations

15.11.2022

ISC3 Investor Forum & Innovation Showcase 2022

ISC3 Investor Forum & Innovation Showcase 2022

What challenges do impact investors face when evaluating ESGs and investing in Start-ups? What roledoes the financial and regulatory framework play in West African Sustainable Chemistry Innovations?Which Sustainable Chemistry pioneers captured the hearts of the audience? And who are the winners ofthe EUR 25.000 ISC3 Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Waste? These were some of thekey questions of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre's (ISC3) Investor Forum2022 on November 9th and 10th, 2022. A total of 121 registered international guests from Start-ups,finance, industry, science, NGOs and politics took part in the virtual fourth International Investor Forum.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

We are Galaktika
two women arm in arm smiling at the camera
RAY Cosmetics
two men and one women standing in front of products
Materials In Works
portrait of man and woman

Biocide Leasing: A triple-win business model for Sustainable Chemistry

26.10.2022

The Capacity Development approach of ISC3

Biocides are a group of chemicals used in a multitude of industrial and daily life applications. They are essential and generate advantages: they help to fulfil hygiene requirements and protect the health of humans and animals and are also used in industrial processes.

Read the Factsheet to learn more about Biocide Leasing

Download Factsheet

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ISC3 INVESTOR FORUM 2022

20.10.2022

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) is hosting its 4th virtual Investor Forum on November 9th and November 10th, 2022.

The Investor Forum will close with awarding the winners of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge, with this year´s focus on Sustainable Chemistry and Waste: Prevention, Valorisation & Management solutions endowed with a total of EUR 25,000.

Factsheet: "Sustainable Chemistry for Climate Protection"

14.10.2022

Capacity Development as a Key to Effective Climate Action in the Chemical Sector

The GIZ-hosted initiatives CAPCI and ISC3 strive to support sustainable practices in the chemical sector, particularly in its important role for tackling climate change. Developing the capacities needed to strengthen the ability of people, organisations and societies to initiate and manage their own sustainable development processes is therefore imperative.

This factsheet provides an overview of CAPCI’s and ISC3’s broad range of training formats to achieve this together with partners, particularly in the Global South – ranging from trainings to workshops and webinars. Both initiatives are looking to intensify their international outreach on the topic and seeking local and regional cooperation partners.

Read the Factsheet to learn more about Sustainable Chemistry for Climate Protection

Download Factsheet

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Reverion and UP Catalyst: two good ideas meet

29.09.2022

Two start-ups, two good ideas for Sustainable Chemistry: High-temperature fuel cells for reversible operation on the one hand (Reverion) and the production of sustainable carbon nanomaterials and graphite on the other (UP Catalyst). At the Start-up Slam of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) at ACHEMA 2022, Reverion and UP Catalyst presented their solutions for a more sustainable future to the professional audience. The two young companies from Germany and Estonia not only convinced the experts but also recognized the opportunity to use synergies and further develop their ideas together.

With their work, Reverion and UP Catalyst are contributing to counteract climate change by reducing CO2 emissions. To achieve their goals, they plan to work closely together in the future as part of a strategic partnership.

“When supplementing sustainable electricity with our fuel cell system, we produce pure CO2, which UP Catalyst can use to produce very valuable carbon nanomaterials,”

says Stephan Herrmann of Reverion.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ISC3
two men smiling at a booth
Stephan Herrmann and Felix Fischer - Reverion
ISC3
two men at a booth
Einar Karu (UP Catalyst) and Stephan Herrmann (Reverion)
ISC3
two men smiling at a booth
Einar Karu (CTO) and Gary Urb (CEO) - UP Catalyst

New White Paper: Hydrogen Economy and Sustainability: Towards a PtX Roadmap for Uruguay

22.09.2022

The White Paper on "Hydrogen Economy and Sustainability: Towards a PtX Roadmap for Uruguay“ is now available for download on our website. The paper provides an overview of the PtX process divided into three phases and a case study on the situation in Uruguay focusing on sustainability, Sustainable Chemistry, and possible side effects. Uruguay achieved a high percentage of renewable electricity in its first energy transition and is now preparing a transition to a hydrogen economy aiming to export surplus energy as well as to de-fossilise various sectors. The aspiration is that all those countries that are preparing or planning a similiar transition process will benefit from our reflections in this paper.

Download Factsheet

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Start-up Slam for Sustainable Chemistry at ACHEMA 2022

19.08.2022

International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) presents innovative solutions of twelve Start-ups at ACHEMA in Frankfurt am Main.

Reversible fuel cells for clean energy, bioplastics made from starch, and secondary raw materials by innovative recycling process of waste diapers – these are just some of the many fledgling ideas for Sustainable Chemistry being showcased by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) at ACHEMA in Frankfurt am Main (B73, 6.0/Green Innovation Zone) from August 22 to 26, 2022.

Reversible fuel cells for clean energy, bioplastics made from starch, and secondary raw materials by innovative recycling process of waste diapers – these are just some of the many fledgling ideas for Sustainable Chemistry being showcased by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) at ACHEMA in Frankfurt am Main (B73, 6.0/Green Innovation Zone) from August 22 to 26, 2022.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Dennis Muguta
two black men holding a diaper and some pellets.

Life Cycle Assessment for Start-ups

16.08.2022

Sustainability Assessment plays an essential role, when it comes to evaluating the impact of a process or product on people and the planet. Not only as a part of responsible entrepreneurship and being compliant with the laws, but sustainability gains nowadays more importance as a criterion for investors as well. For these reasons, it is crucial to start with Sustainability Assessment at an early stage of business development. The ISC3 Global Start-up Service supports start-ups in chemistry-related fields on their sustainability journey.

Are you interested in our Start-up Support and being part of the ISC3 Global Start-up Service? Then have a look here.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Finalists of the third ISC3 Innovation Challenge selected: Ready, set, here are the Changemakers!

02.08.2022

Frankfurt am Main/Germany, July 28th, 2022 – The voting period of the third ISC3 Innovation Challenge that called for innovations in the field of Sustainable Chemistry and Waste: Prevention, Valorisation & Management just ended. The international jury of experts chose its 10 finalists from a large number of top-notch applications from five continents.

Prizes & Innovation Challenge Award Ceremony

All finalists will get access to the customized support of the ISC3 Global Startup Service (ISC3 GSS) in the form of an online pitch training. They will be featured via the ISC3 communication channels as a “lighthouse case study for Sustainable Chemistry innovation” in the ISC3 series Start-up of the Month.

On the basis of their presentation in the end of the pitch training, the selected finalists will be given the chance to compete to win EUR 15.000 and pitch on November 10th, 2022 late afternoon CET during the upcoming all virtual fourth ISC3 Investor Forum 2022.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Impactful Sustainable Chemistry Start-ups and Innovators in India – Meet our Finalists!

14.05.2022

Pune/India and Frankfurt am Main/Germany, May 11th, 2022 – The voting period of the Call to Impactful Sustainable Chemistry Start-ups and Innovators in India just ended and the ISC3 is introducing the ten finalists.

The ten finalists were officially announced by ISC3 in the frame of the virtual Roundtable India: Andvancing the Ten Objectives for Green and Sustainable Chemistry on May 11th, which kicked off this year’s Sustainable Chemistry Club series. For more information please see here

Please get in touch with Silvia Nikova if you'd like to learn more.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Image of a blue green globe and face of woman

Anna Turns: Go Toxic Free!

11.05.2022

Anna specialises in writing about sustainability, from climate change and renewable energy to marine issues, food and farming. She teaches journalism students at Plymouth Marjon University and helps them to build their portfolios, find their niche and develop their content creation skills on paper, on screen and on radio. Her first book, Go Toxic Free: Easy and Sustainable Ways to Reduce Chemical Pollution was published in January 2022.

Read the interview here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

GSS Workshop: A framework for implementing holistic and integrated life cycle sustainability assessment of regional bioeconomy

11.05.2022

In the frame of the Extended Services for General Support Plus eligible start-ups, the ISC3 Global Start-up Service organized workshop on the topic “A framework for implementing holistic and integrated life cycle sustainability assessment of regional bioeconomy” with Walther Zeug and Christopher Blum on May 5th, 2022 at 16:30 CEST via Zoom.

Learn more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

Join us in our Webinar Series: Sustainable Chemistry Club – India: Advancing the Ten Objectives for Green and Sustainable Chemistry

29.04.2022

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Center (ISC3) is launching together with the Science and Technology Park Pune (Scitech) their second season of the Sustainable Chemistry Club, a series of interactive webinars, this time focusing on UNEP’s Green and Sustainable Chemistry: Framework Manual.

Learn more here

Read the ISC3 News Article here

ISC3 at ACHEMA

25.04.2022

Visit us at ACHEMA World Forum for the Process Industries trade fair - in Frankfurt am Main (Germany) from August 22nd to 26th, 2022!

The ISC3 will host its own booth in the Green Innovation Zone in Hall 6. Every day, we will feature 2 start-ups from our Changemaker Community and you can look forward to a pitch event on Wednesday, August 24th as well. Come learn more about our current work, projects and programs. We are excited to meet you! Further information can be found here in due time.

Read the ISC3 News Article here

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR THE ISC3 AND OTTO KRAHN NEW BUSINESS CORPORATE CHALLENGE 2022 IN SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND NEW RECYCLING OPPORTUNITIES AND STRUCTURES WITHIN AFRICA

25.04.2022

Frankfurt am Main, April 20th, 2022 – The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) and the Otto Krahn New Business GmbH & Co. KG launched the ISC3 Corporate Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and New Recycling Opportunities and Structures within Africa. Three best solutions will be awarded a monetary prize and the winners will receive a potential piloting opportunity. Furthermore, in addition to the finalists, innovators with solutions of particular relevance will be also considered for potential piloting opportunity. Contest applications will be accepted until June 30th, 2022.

The ISC3 Corporate Challenge is the first Sustainable Chemistry Corporate Challenge with the aim to match industry partners and start-ups based on unique industry calls in the chemical or chemical-related sector. The goal is to find tailored-made solutions to critical problems, promote innovation and accelerate Sustainable Development.

For more information and to submit your application, please visit: https://pro.evalato.com/4473

Read the ISC3 News Article here

set of 5 pictures showing plastic waste and recycling

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR THE ISC3 INNOVATION CHALLENGE IN SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND WASTE: PREVENTION, VALORIZATION & MANAGEMENT

15.12.2021

Frankfurt am Main, December 15, 2021 – The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) launched the ISC3 Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Waste: Prevention, Valorisation & Management. Contest applications will be accepted until April 19, 2022. The winner of the Innovation Challenge 2021/2022 will be awarded a monetary prize of 15,000 EUR.

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge aims to engage, award, and promote sustainable chemistry innovators and their original solutions, since the transformation of the chemical sector plays a crucial role towards achieving most of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information and to submit your application, please visit: ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2022 (evalato.com)

Contact

Astrid Ewaz, Project Manager/Events, ISC3 Innovation Hub

astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

+49 69 7564-623

Poster for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge with an image of a head made of plastic.

ISC3 Investor Forum 2021 & Award Ceremony for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 21/22 in Sustainable Chemistry and renewable energies

18.11.2021

This year’s Investor Forum 2021 took place in the frame of the very first "Global Sustainable Chemistry Week (GSCW)" hosted by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3). A total of 170 international guests from start-ups, finance, industry, science, NGOs and politics took part in the virtual third international Investor Forum of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3).

Frankfurt am Main, 9-11 November 2021 – This year’s Investor Forum 2021 took place in the frame of the very first "Global Sustainable Chemistry Week (GSCW)" hosted by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3). A total of 170 international guests from start-ups, finance, industry, science, NGOs and politics took part in the virtual third international Investor Forum of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3).

For further information on the competition, eligibility, and how to register your participation in the 2022 edition of the ISC3 see the Innovation Challenge site.

Contact

Astrid Ewaz, Project Manager/Events, ISC3 Innovation Hub

+49 69 7564-623, astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

EX-ANTE WAYS TOWARDS THE ENERGY TRANSITION - CATALYZING INNOVATION THROUGH INVESTMENTS IN SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY

The third edition of the Investor Forum, organized by ISC3, will dive into the dynamics and interplay of regulation and reporting related to chemical restrictions, new and alternative business models, and ways forward towards the energy transition.

The Investor Forum, held virtually for the second time from November 9th to November 11th, 2021, will connect founders, investors, and experts as well as decision-makers from industry, science, and politics, to explore these crucial questions. Its panel discussions will be matched by three pitching sessions, featuring 20 sustainable chemistry start-ups, additional innovation showcases of cutting-edge entrepreneurs, as well as speed dating and networking opportunities with international investors via a separate virtual platform solution. The featured start-ups profiles will soon be available for investors in a digitally available investor booklet. Beyond this, the Investor Forum will also again host the Presentations of the Finalists and the Award Ceremony of the global EUR 25,000 ISC3 Innovation Challenge in Renewable Energy and Sustainable Chemistry.

See the Investor Forum page for Information on the next Investor Forum:

Key Visual showing group of diverse business and science people, a globe and waste

Ready, set, here come the changemakers

15.07.2021

Frankfurt am Main/Germany, July 15th, 2021 – The voting period of the second ISC3 Innovation Challenge that called for innovations in the field of Renewable Energy and Sustainable Chemistry Solutions just ended. It received a large number of top-notch applications from six continents and 28 countries.

To learn more about our ISC3 Innovation Challenge Award nominee’s, and to register for the ISC3 Investor Forum 2021, please visit www.isc3.org.

The ISC3 Investor Forum 2021 is a must attend event for international VCs and angel investors that are looking to invest in innovative sustainable chemistry technologies.

Contact

Astrid Ewaz
Project Manager/Events
ISC3 Innovation Hub
T +49 69 7564-623
astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

Download as pdf
Innovation Challenge banner with wind energy facilities on a background of solar panels and molecules

ISC3 Innovation Hub at Achema Pulse 2021, the digital flagship event for the process industry focussing on Sustainability.

15.06.2021

Frankfurt am Main, Germany, June 15th – June 30th, 2021 – The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) established a strong presence at this year’s Achema Pulse 2021.

With over 960 international exhibitors from 38 countries and thousands of visitors from all around the world, Achema Pulse is one of the world’s biggest virtual exhibitions for the process industry, showcasing innovations from the chemical, pharmaceutical and biotech sector as well as well as energy and environmental services.

The ISC3 Innovation Hub is pleased to announce its participation in the Achema 2022 already!Stay connected, to learn more about our upcoming program please visit www.isc3.org.

Contact

Silvia Nikova, Start-up Relations and Communications Manager ISC3 Innovation Hub

silvia.nikova©isc3.org

Extended Application Time! Launch of “Open Labs Brazil”

Competition for Sustainable Chemistry Start-ups in Brazil: Access labs and equipment to advance your business idea or model

Ideas Competition for Start-Ups based in Brazil

Dear Brazilian Start-Ups,

we just extended our Open Labs Brazil ideas competition submission deadline forinnovative business ideas from the field of sustainable chemistry to 27 July 2021.

Dare to apply! -Are you in it to win it?

Learn more here !

Chemical Leasing Award - ISC3 member of Jury

The concept of Chemical Leasing was developed in 2004 by UNIDO to further a more efficient use of chemicals in production processes, changing the approach from volume to value. In 2009 the Chemical Leasing Award was founded to support and acknowledge best practices in the Chemical Leasing Concept…

Chemical Leasing Award - ISC3 member of Jury

The concept of Chemical Leasing was developed in 2004 by UNIDO to further a more efficient use of chemicals in production processes, changing the approach from volume to value.
In 2009 the Chemical Leasing Award was founded to support and acknowledge best practices in the Chemical Leasing Concept from companies and individuals worldwide. We are delighted that Dr. Claudio Cinquemani was asked to join the Expert Jury for the “Chemical Leasing Award 2020”.
Dr. Cinquemani and his colleagues will assess the applications, verify the concepts and vote on the winner which will be announced in a ceremony in Summer 2021.
Logo of the ISC3

Launch of “Open Labs Brazil” - Ideas Competition for Start-Ups based in Brazil

06.04.2021

April 6th, 2021, Rio de Janeiro - The SENAI Institute of Innovation in Green Chemistry , the SENAI Institute of Innovation of Biosynthetics and Fibers from SENAI CETIQT , the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) and the London-based company Clustermarket launched an Ideas Competition for Start-Ups based in Brazil . “Open Labs Brazil” addresses all innovators, entrepreneurs and start-ups developing Sustainable Chemistry solutions. Applications are open from April 1st, 2021 until May 31st, 2021.

Contact

Astrid Ewaz
Project Manager/Events
ISC3 Innovation Hub
T +49 69 7564-623
astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

Download as pdf.

four scientists in a lab looking at jars with plant samples inside

A new way to share R&D equipment arrives in Brazil

18.03.2021

Making science more accessible for all innovators

The UK based start-up Clustermarket, the SENAI Innovation Institute for Biosynthetic and Fibers from SENAI CETIQT, SENAI Innovation Institute for Green Chemistry and ISC3 have just agreed on a joint project with the aim of increasing collaboration in scientific research and innovation in Brazil.

Together with ISC3, the project is particularly focused on the Sustainable Chemistry field, which will be used as the pilot research field with more news to come in the next months! The project will offer knowledge, study cases and practical tools for better organising, sharing and advertising equipment and services at laboratories from universities and research institutes, making these more accessible to external users from the academic, industry and startup communities.

Contact
Astrid Ewaz
Project Manager/Events ISC3 Innovation Hub
T +49 69 7564-623
astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

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ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2021 on Sustainable Chemistry and Renewable Energies

01.02.2021

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) launched the call for applications for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Renewable Energies.

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2020/2021 addresses innovators from around the world which are active in developing Sustainable Chemistry solutions linked to renewable energies.

Contact

Astrid Ewaz
Project Manager/Events ISC3 Innovation Hub
T +49 69 7564-623
astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

2nd Investor Forum: Catalysing Innovation through Investments in Sustainable Chemistry

2nd Investor Forum: Catalysing Innovation through Investments in Sustainable Chemistry

The second edition of the Investor Forum, 21 – 23 October 2020, organised by the ISC3 and Think Beyond Innovation Accelerator™, explores how Sustainable Chemistry can support innovations in achieving the SDGs. Participants will discuss the role of frontier capital and blended financing mechanisms to secure the innovation pipeline, and the dynamics of the innovation eco-system.

Registration Link: Investor Forum 2020 and Innovation Showcase
Link to Agenda: Catalysing Innovation through Investments in Sustainable Chemistry

Contact

Astrid Ewaz
Project Manager/Events ISC3 Innovation Hub
T +49 69 7564-623
astrid.ewaz©isc3.org

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the Think Beyond - The Innovation Accelerator Logo

To be more sustainable, chemical products need to be simplified

24.01.2020

Researchers publish guidelines on how to rethink chemistry for a circular economy in a Science article

Taking pollution and increasingly scarce raw materials into account, the chemical industry must shift its products and processes towards a circular economy. This implies that waste must be primarily avoided, and products need to be developed in a way that they can be reused or recycled. In their article in the renowned journal Science, Prof. Klaus Kümmerer, Director of the ISC3 Research and Innovation Hub and Professor of Sustainable Chemistry and Material Resources at the Leuphana University, Prof. John Clark, University of York, and Prof. Vânia Zuin, University of São Carlos, put forward guidelines on how to rethink chemistry to facilitate a circular economy. Clark and Zuin are also members of the ISC3 Scientific Board.

Original Publication: Klaus Kümmerer, James H. Clark, Vânia G. Zuin, Rethinking chemistry for a circular economy, Science, January 24, 2020, Issue 6476, pp. 369-370, DOI: 10.1126 / science.aba4979/ (restricted access)

New Partners in Africa, Asia and Latin America join the ISC3 Spiderweb Network

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) joined forces with three new partners from Africa, Asia and Latin America: The National Agency for Research and Innovation of Uruguay (ANII), the Indian Green ChemisTree Foundation and the Egyptian social enterprise Youthinkgreen.

Do you have the knowledge of the innovation ecosystem and own a network in your region? Do you see the enabling role of Sustainable Chemistry to achieve the goals of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development? Enter our Spiderweb Network and join us in supporting innovators for a global breakthrough of Sustainable Chemistry! Contact our team with the following email: innovation@isc3.org.

a group of six men pose for a photo in front of an ISC3 banner
(from left to right): Friedrich Barth, former Managing Director ISC3, Abdel-Rahman Fahmy, Chairman Youthinkgreen, Omar Barreneche, CEO ANII, Nitesh Mehta, Director ChemisTree, Dr. Andreas Förster, Director ISC3 Innovation Hub, Prof. Klaus Kümmerer, Director ISC3 Research and Education Hub.

ISC3 Innovation Challenge opens for entrepreneurs to advance Sustainable Building and Living

21.05.2019

Shanghai, 21 May 2019 – The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) launches the first ISC3 Innovation Challenge, calling for innovations in the field of Sustainable Building and Living. The prize consists of a cash award of 25,000 EUR and extensive start-up support by the ISC3 Global Start-up Service. The Innovation Challenge will become an annual competition and will focus on a different specific topic every year. The 2019 Challenge invites ideators and more advanced entrepreneurs to submit sustainable chemistry-based solutions for construction, buildings and living.

The Innovation Challenge is a flagship initiative under the ISC3 Global Start-up Service, the world’s first programme supporting innovators in the sustainable chemistry-related fields globally. The Global Start-up Service targets entrepreneurs along the entire innovation chain and offers them a wide range of services tailored to their needs.

For more information about the ISC3 Innovation Challenge and how to apply, visit the Innovation Challenge

the ISC3 innovation challenge in sustainable building and living banner showing a hand organising wooden miniature housing facades

Mario Heredia Salgado wins the first ISC3 "Entrepreneurial Spirit in Sustainable Chemistry Award" with his start-up "Andes"

06.05.2019

Mario Alejandro Heredia Salgado wins the “Entrepreneurial Spirit in Sustainable Chemistry Award” which has been granted by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) for the first time in 2019 as part of the Elsevier Foundation ISC3 Green and Sustainable Chemistry Challenge.

Heredia has developed a process to produce biochar from agribusiness biomass wastes to improve stressed soils. The prize consists of a cash award of 25,000 EUR plus the onboarding at the ISC3 Global Start-up Service and was awarded on 6 May 2019 at the 4th Green and Sustainable Chemistry Conference in Dresden in Germany.

a man standing besides a metal prototype while holding wielding equipment
a hand showing little dark pellets of biochar

ISC3 joins the Elsevier Foundation Green & Sustainable Chemistry Challenge

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) to contribute new expertise, networks and a 3rd prize for entrepreneurial spirit to the Challenge

ISC3, The Elsevier Foundation and Elsevier Chemistry Journals will join forces on the Elsevier Foundation ISC3 Green & Sustainable Challenge (GSCC) to promote capacity and community building in the field of Green and Sustainable Chemistry in developing and emerging countries.

The new collaboration builds on an existing Challenge partnership between the Elsevier Foundation and Elsevier’s chemistry journals with first and second prizes for €50,000 and €25,000 for sustainable chemistry projects addressing challenges in the developing world focusing on energy, water, waste reduction, agriculture, and medicine. ISC3 will contribute an additional €25,000 3rd prize for entrepreneurial spirit bringing a broad industry and policymaking network to the Challenge.

Reference sheets for each award winner with a more extensive biography and description of their work are available upon request.
Reporters wishing to attend the pitching event or award ceremony may contact Domiziana Francescon at +31 61 021 5901 or d.francescon©elsevier.com.>Read more about the Green & Sustainable Chemistry Challenge:

ISC3 and SusChem sign Memorandum of Understanding towards advancing Sustainable Chemistry

14.03.2019

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) and the European Technology Platform for Sustainable Chemistry (SusChem) signed a new cooperation agreement to foster their common mission of advancing Sustainable Chemistry at a European and global level at the SusChem board meeting on 14 March 2019 in Brussels.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines the role of each organisation and proposes long-term collaboration in the following areas: research agenda development, fostering breakthrough innovation, education & skills development and stakeholder dialogues on Sustainable Chemistry. Through this agreement, both parties aim to maximise the impact of relevant activities, build on synergies and complementarities, and create added value for their members.

ISC3 hosts New Plastics Economy Investor Forum in partnership with Ellen Mc Arthur Foundation and Think Beyond Plastic

07.12.2018

The first New Plastics Economy Investor Forum took place on 7. December 2018 in Frankfurt at DECHEMA, home of the ISC3 Innovation Hub. Dedicated to building up the circular economy for plastics, the Investor Forum welcomed over 120 international investors, innovators and industry representatives.

During the course of the event, attendees took part in networking activities and listened to inspiring start-up pitches and discussion panels centred on advancing new business models, designs and technologies that keep plastics in the economy and prevent them from becoming waste. A highlight of the event were innovation showcases, during which 32 start-ups introduced their ideas in the areas of new product delivery models, sustainable chemistry and new materials for circular economy in front of top-tier investors.

Read more here:

Press release

ISC3
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Press Invitation

17.09.2018

2 pm – 4 pm, get-together afterwards ISC3 1st Year Anniversary Event at the ISC3 Headquarters in Bonn

To celebrate the successful first year of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) as well as to present our upcoming activities, the ISC3 will host an anniversary event on 17 September 2018 in Bonn. The event will introduce you to the emerging concept of sustainable chemistry as a game-changing contribution to sustainable development and invites you to join the work of the ISC3.

Invitation & Programme
Press registration: media©isc3.org

Sustainable Chemistry: Reinventing a 150-year-old industry for the greater good

11.06.2018

Chemistry is facing the biggest challenge in its history: To meet the needs of a growing population in a world of scarce resources and growing environmental problems chemistry has to reinvent itself to become a key solution provider for a sustainable future.

Press release 11 June 2018: Sustainable Chemistry: Reinventing a 150-year-old industry for the greater good

Chemistry is facing the biggest challenge in its history: To meet the needs of a growing population in a world of scarce resources and growing environmental problems chemistry has to reinvent itself to become a key solution provider for a sustainable future. The emerging concept of Sustainable Chemistry offers a new system thinking based approach to transform the more than 150-year-old chemical industry. To promote Sustainable Chemistry innovation worldwide the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) was established in 2017 as a new international, independent institution.

A successful start into a new era of Sustainable Chemistry – the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3)

11.06.2023

The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) is a new international institution promoting and developing sustainable chemistry solutions worldwide.

Press release 11 June 2018: A successful start into a new era of Sustainable Chemistry – the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3)

As a globally acting institution, multi-stakeholder platform and think tank the ISC3 is committed to supporting the global breakthrough of Sustainable Chemistry. With its transformative agenda the ISC3 contributes to achieving the Global Sustainable Development Goals by fostering innovation and enabling new sustainable business models in the chemicals sector.