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ICC to Hold Annual India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference and Exhibition

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The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) will host the 19th edition of its Annual India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference & Exhibition on 11–12 March 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai. Recognised as ICC’s flagship event, the conference has emerged as one of the most influential strategic platforms for India’s chemical industry.

Over the years, the event has evolved into a premier forum that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and global experts to discuss the sector’s future. In particular, it facilitates leadership dialogue, policy engagement, international collaboration, and the sharing of best practices in safety, sustainability, and operational resilience.

Theme Focuses on Competitiveness and Resilience

The theme for the 2026 edition — “Shaping a Competitive and Resilient Chemical Industry for India”—reflects the sector’s growing need to adapt to geopolitical shifts, technological transformation, and sustainability challenges. Like previous editions, McKinsey & Company will serve as the knowledge partner for the conference. In addition, the event is supported by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, along with the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA).

Eminent Global Leaders to Address Inaugural Session

The inaugural session on day one will feature prominent global leaders who will share insights on competitiveness, strategic transformation, and investment priorities in the chemical industry.

Key speakers include:

*Sven Smit, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company

*Claus Rettig, Interim CFO and President – Asia Pacific at Evonik Industries AG

*Marco Mensink, Director General of the European Chemical Industry Council

Their addresses will highlight leadership strategies, capital allocation, and the evolving global landscape of the chemical sector.

Fireside Chat with Global Technology Leaders

Another highlight of the conference will be a fireside chat featuring A N Sreeram, Senior Vice President – Research & Development and CTO at Dow. He will engage in an in-depth discussion with M M Sharma, the Padma Vibhushan awardee widely regarded as one of India’s most influential chemical engineering leaders. The session will explore innovation, leadership journeys, and the future direction of the global chemical industry.

A Strategic Platform for Global Industry Dialogue

The conference typically attracts 700–750 senior-level delegates, including:

*CEOs, CXOs, and board members from leading chemical and petrochemical companies

*Global industry associations and multinational corporations

*Officials and regulators from the Government of India

*Technology, safety, logistics, and risk management solution providers

*Investors, start-ups, and research institutions

The event offers a unique environment for high-level networking, closed-door discussions, and one-to-one meetings. Participants can explore investment opportunities, technology collaborations, and global best practices in safety and operational excellence.

Key Sessions on Global Trends and Industry Transformation

In addition to keynote addresses, the conference will host multiple sessions focusing on emerging global trends shaping the chemical sector. Key topics include:

*Geopolitical shifts shaping the global chemicals industry

*How multinational companies are responding to geopolitical challenges

*The growing role of Generative AI (GenAI) in chemical manufacturing

*Managing risk and opportunity in the chemical value chain

*Implications for the US–India partnership

*Impact of China’s industrial policies and opportunities for India

*Strengthening resilience in European markets

*Capital allocation strategies for chemical leaders

*Co-innovation and collaboration in the industry

*The current state of global mergers and acquisitions in chemicals

*Capturing value in fast-growing end markets

*Elevator pitches by start-up founders in the chemical sector

These discussions aim to provide strategic insights for companies navigating global market shifts and technological disruption.

Networking, B2B Engagement and Industry Collaboration

Beyond formal sessions, the conference will also feature interactive formats designed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange. These include:

*Fireside chats with leading industry figures

*One-to-one coffee chats with speakers

*B2B and B2G meetings with key partners and exhibitors

Such engagement opportunities enable participants to build meaningful partnerships and discuss future investment opportunities.

ICCA Leadership Meeting to Boost Global Participation

In parallel with the conference, ICC will also host the Energy & Climate Change Leadership Group Meeting of the International Council of Chemical Associations. Senior representatives from ICCA member associations worldwide will attend the meeting. As many of these global leaders are expected to participate in the conference as well, the event will offer a valuable platform for international collaboration and strategic dialogue on climate and sustainability initiatives in the chemical sector.

Exhibition to Showcase Industry Innovations

Alongside the conference, ICC will organise a dedicated industry exhibition highlighting the latest innovations and solutions in the chemical sector. The exhibition will feature:

*Advanced technologies for chemical manufacturing and process optimisation

*Safety and risk management solutions for industrial operations

*Sustainability-focused products and services across chemical industry segments

By bringing together technology providers, manufacturers, and solution developers, the exhibition will further support knowledge sharing and collaboration within the industry.

Driving the Future of India’s Chemical Industry

With participation from global leaders, policymakers, technology experts, and investors, the 19th Annual India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference & Exhibition aims to shape the next phase of growth for India’s chemical sector. As per the press release, the event will play a key role in strengthening industry competitiveness, fostering innovation, and building a resilient and globally integrated chemical ecosystem for India.

HPCL and IFSDMS Collaborate to Strengthen Emergency Response Training

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Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) signed a strategic agreement with the Institute of Fire Safety and Disaster Management Studies (IFSDMS) to strengthen emergency response capabilities through specialised Live Fire Training for its officers. The initiative aims to enhance practical preparedness and reinforce safety standards across HPCL’s extensive energy infrastructure.

Agreement Signed to Enhance Industrial Safety Training

The agreement was formally signed by Dharmendra Kumar Sharma, Executive Director – Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) at HPCL, and Dharmendra Wakharikar, Chief Coordinator of IFSDMS. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Vikram Mahurkar, who also serves as Managing Director of Checkmate Group. Through the partnership, both organisations aim to strengthen professional training standards and improve the capability of energy sector personnel to handle complex emergency situations.

Preparing HPCL Officers for High-Risk Industrial Scenarios

As a Maharatna CPSE and a key player in India’s energy sector, HPCL operates a vast network of refineries, depots, terminals, and more than 21,000 retail outlets across the country. Given the scale and complexity of these operations, robust safety training remains essential.

Therefore, the collaboration focuses on complementing conventional classroom learning with realistic live-fire simulations. These hands-on training sessions will allow HPCL officers to practice responding to high-risk industrial incidents, thereby improving their decision-making and emergency response capabilities.

Advanced Fire and Disaster Management Training Facility

The IFSDMS training centre is located near Vadodara and spans approximately 75 acres. It is equipped with specialised infrastructure designed for advanced fire and disaster management training. The facility includes industrial mock-ups such as process units and LPG installations, which help replicate real-world industrial environments. As a result, trainees can participate in realistic live-fire exercises that simulate emergency scenarios commonly encountered in large-scale industrial operations.

Strengthening Safety Culture and Operational Resilience

Through this partnership, HPCL aims to further strengthen its safety culture, operational readiness, and emergency response capability across its workforce. The initiative will also support the protection of critical energy infrastructure and improve resilience in managing industrial emergencies. As per the press release, the collaboration highlights HPCL’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards while ensuring that its personnel remain fully prepared to handle potential risks in the energy sector.

Middle East Conflict Could Pressure India’s Economy: Moody’s

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India’s economy could face rising risks if the escalating conflict in the Middle East disrupts energy supplies and drives global oil prices higher, according to Moody’s Ratings. The agency warned that such disruptions could weaken the rupee, fuel inflation, and widen the country’s current account deficit. India remains particularly vulnerable because of its heavy reliance on energy imports from the region. Nearly 46 percent of the country’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports originate from the Middle East, making supply stability crucial for economic stability.

Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Raise Supply Risks

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has already affected energy trade routes, particularly through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The narrow waterway serves as one of the world’s most critical corridors for transporting crude oil and LNG. Shipping activity through the strait has slowed significantly as tensions escalated, while some regional ports have suspended operations. As a result, global trade in oil and LNG has faced disruptions, raising concerns about supply stability. Moody’s noted that sustained disruptions could increase India’s import costs, weaken the rupee, and push domestic inflation higher. In addition, the government may need to expand subsidies to protect consumers and businesses from rising energy prices, which could complicate fiscal and monetary policy management.

Global Energy Markets Face Growing Uncertainty

Beyond India, the rating agency cautioned that prolonged disruptions could have serious implications for the global economy. Although physical damage to energy infrastructure remains limited so far and global inventories offer short-term buffers, the situation could deteriorate if navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted. In such a scenario, Brent crude prices could climb above USD 100 per barrel, potentially triggering higher inflation, tighter financial conditions, and slower global economic growth.

Baseline Outlook: Temporary Disruptions

Under its baseline scenario, Moody’s expects the conflict to remain relatively short-lived and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to resume in the near term. If this outcome materialises, the agency forecasts that Brent crude prices will average between $70 and $80 per barrel in 2026. This would represent only a modest increase from the $69 per barrel average recorded in 2025, thereby limiting the broader impact on global economic growth.

Adverse Scenario: Oil Prices Surge

However, the risks could intensify if supply disruptions persist. In a more adverse scenario where Brent crude remains above $100 per barrel, energy-importing regions such as Asia and Europe would face considerable economic strain.

Higher energy prices would increase both consumer and industrial costs, reduce household purchasing power, and discourage investment. Moreover, persistent inflation could force major central banks to maintain elevated interest rates or raise them further. As reported by knnindia.co.in, such policy tightening would likely restrict liquidity, tighten financial conditions, and slow global economic activity, Moody’s warned.

Roehm Introduces ACRYLITE® SunResist with Enhanced UV Resistance

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Roehm introduced ACRYLITE® SunResist, a new capstock technology designed to deliver superior UV protection and long-term durability for outdoor applications. The innovation marks the first capstock solution under the ACRYLITE® brand, which represents Röhm’s portfolio of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) products across the Americas. With this launch, the company aims to provide manufacturers with a high-performance material that combines durability, aesthetics, and efficient processing for demanding outdoor environments.

Designed for High-Exposure Outdoor Applications

Manufacturers developing outdoor products often face challenges such as prolonged UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and abrasion. To address these issues, ACRYLITE® SunResist has been specifically engineered for applications including:

*Window and door profiles

*Decking systems

*Outdoor furniture

*Building façades

*Recreational and outdoor equipment components

These applications require materials that maintain structural integrity and visual appeal even under extreme weather conditions.

Advanced UV Protection and Weather Resistance

ACRYLITE® SunResist is a PMMA molding compound formulated to create an ultra-thin co-extruded protective cap layer. This layer effectively blocks harmful ultraviolet radiation up to 400 nm, helping prevent color fading and surface degradation over time.

As a result, products manufactured with this material maintain their color, gloss, and surface integrity even after extended exposure to sunlight, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures. This high level of weather resistance makes the material particularly suitable for outdoor components that must retain a premium appearance year after year.

Premium Surface Quality and Mechanical Strength

In addition to UV protection, ACRYLITE® SunResist enhances finished parts with superior surface quality. The material offers precise gloss control, high surface hardness, and strong abrasion resistance. Furthermore, it provides excellent chemical resistance, allowing manufacturers to achieve high-end aesthetics without compromising durability. Its mechanical performance is reinforced by high impact strength and heat stability, which help prevent issues such as stress cracking, warping, or distortion at elevated temperatures.

Improved Processing Efficiency for Manufacturers

Beyond performance benefits, ACRYLITE® SunResist also supports efficient manufacturing processes. Röhm has optimised the material for high flowability and a wide processing window, enabling smoother extrusion and co-extrusion operations. Consequently, processors can reduce scrap rates and improve overall production efficiency. The material also demonstrates strong adhesion to compatible substrates, which helps prevent brittle edges during cutting and reduces the risk of cap layer peeling. This capability is especially valuable for complex profiles, cut-to-size parts, and post-fabrication processes.

Enabling Long-Lasting, High-Quality Products

According to Tongzhai Gao, the new solution combines established material quality with advanced innovation. “ACRYLITE® SunResist combines the trusted quality of our ACRYLITE® molding compounds with advanced material science. It’s not just about protection—it enables manufacturers to produce products that remain strong and visually appealing for years while improving production efficiency,” Gao said.

As per the press release, with the launch of ACRYLITE® SunResist, Röhm aims to support manufacturers in delivering durable, high-performance outdoor products while meeting increasing market expectations for reliability, aesthetics, and processing efficiency.

Stahl Introduces Market-Ready PermUCell for Sustainable Polyurethane Production

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Stahl announced the global launch of PermUCell™, a next-generation, fully water-based coagulation technology designed to produce high-quality polyurethane (PU) substrates without using dimethylformamide (DMF). The new solution marks a major step toward more sustainable material production in industries such as performance footwear and synthetic materials. After gaining successful industrial adoption among manufacturing partners in Asia—the world’s largest hub for footwear and synthetic material production—the technology is now fully market-ready for global deployment.

Advancing DMF-Free Polyurethane Production

PermUCell™ offers manufacturers a practical pathway to meet growing sustainability requirements while maintaining product performance and production efficiency. Unlike traditional processes, the technology is completely DMF-free, helping producers significantly reduce environmental impact.

At the same time, the system integrates smoothly with existing coagulation production lines, allowing manufacturers to transition to cleaner technology without major infrastructure changes. As a result, companies can continue producing PU materials that meet the quality standards demanded by global footwear and fashion brands.

Importantly, PermUCell™ delivers enhanced product performance. Materials produced with the technology offer improved softness, breathability, and flexibility, creating a superior consumer experience while maintaining durability and aesthetic appeal.

Proven Performance through Industrial Implementation

Before its global launch, PermUCell™ underwent extensive industrial testing and implementation with manufacturing partners in both Asia and Europe. These large-scale trials demonstrated the technology’s reliability and readiness for commercial adoption. Consequently, Stahl is now rolling out the solution worldwide, enabling manufacturers to transition to sustainable PU production with confidence.

Global Technical Support for Seamless Adoption

To support customers during the transition, Stahl provides comprehensive technical assistance through its global network of specialists and application Centers of Excellence. These teams help manufacturers optimise production processes and ensure smooth integration of the new technology.

Key support services include:

*Production setup and parameter optimisation

*Integration with existing manufacturing lines

*Scaling up production capacity

*Material performance tuning to meet brand specifications

*Ongoing troubleshooting and process improvement

According to Montse Pous, the company aims to make the transition to cleaner technologies as seamless as possible. “Our goal is to enable a smooth and confident shift to sustainable coagulation technologies while maintaining stable process control and reliable technical performance,” she said.

Supporting the Industry’s Sustainability Transition

Stahl also emphasises that PermUCell™ supports the industry’s broader efforts to phase out harmful solvents such as DMF. By combining advanced technology with global technical support, manufacturers can accelerate their sustainability goals without compromising operational efficiency.

“As manufacturers move toward cleaner materials, PermUCell™ provides a proven pathway to eliminate DMF while maintaining product performance and production efficiency,” said Lidia Martinez. As per the press release, with the global rollout of PermUCell™, Stahl aims to help manufacturers across the footwear and synthetic materials industries adopt environmentally responsible production technologies while continuing to deliver high-performance polyurethane materials.

India and UK Convene Conference on Green Hydrogen Standards and Safety

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India and the United Kingdom convened the India–UK Conference on Green Hydrogen Standards and Safety Protocols on February 27, 2026, in New Delhi. The event brought together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, standards organisations, testing institutions, research bodies, and regulatory agencies to strengthen cooperation on the safe deployment of green hydrogen technologies. The conference supported the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and related technologies.

Joint Effort to Advance Hydrogen Safety Frameworks

The National Centre for Hydrogen Safety under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy organised the event in collaboration with the British High Commission in India and WRI India. Throughout the conference, participants discussed critical issues such as regulatory frameworks, international standards, and safety protocols across the entire green hydrogen value chain. These discussions covered production, storage, transportation, and end-use applications, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive safety ecosystem.

Leaders Emphasise Global Cooperation

The inaugural session opened with remarks by Mohammad Rihan, Director General of the National Institute of Solar Energy. Senior officials from India and the UK then delivered special addresses, including Abhay Bakre of MNRE, Jinoos Shariati, Anjan Kumar Mishra of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board, and Laura Aylett.

In the keynote address, Parvinder Maini stressed the need for strong safety frameworks, well-defined standards, and deeper international collaboration. According to him, these elements are essential for enabling the large-scale adoption of green hydrogen technologies.

Regulators Discuss Standards and Safety Compliance

A key highlight of the conference was the participation of national regulatory authorities responsible for hydrogen safety and standardisation. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation presented regulatory perspectives on hydrogen safety compliance, risk assessment, and hazard management. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Indian Standards shared updates on the evolving hydrogen standards framework. It also highlighted ongoing efforts to align Indian regulations with global best practices.

Building a Strong Green Hydrogen Ecosystem

As reported by msn.com, the conference concluded with a shared commitment from India and the UK to deepen cooperation. The focus will be on developing robust standards, regulatory frameworks, and safety protocols for green hydrogen technologies. These deliberations are expected to strengthen ongoing initiatives under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. At the same time, they will help build a comprehensive safety ecosystem. They will also support the growth of a reliable and globally competitive green hydrogen sector in India.

Government Introduces Standards for Green Ammonia and Methanol Production

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In a significant step toward strengthening its clean energy ambitions, the Government of India has introduced new standards for the production of green ammonia and green methanol. Announced on Saturday, the measures are part of the country’s broader strategy under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen and its downstream derivatives. By establishing clear emission benchmarks, the government seeks to ensure that fuels labelled as “green” genuinely contribute to decarbonisation while supporting the country’s expanding clean energy ecosystem.

Clear Emission Thresholds for ‘Green’ Classification

Under the newly announced framework, producers must meet strict greenhouse gas emission limits to qualify their products as green. Specifically, the standards cap lifecycle emissions at 0.38 kg of CO₂ equivalent per kg of ammonia and 0.44 kg of CO₂ equivalent per kg of methanol.

These thresholds will serve as the official benchmark for verifying and certifying green ammonia and methanol produced in India. As a result, manufacturers will need to adopt low-carbon production pathways—primarily using renewable energy–based hydrogen—to comply with the new norms.

Supporting Decarbonisation Across Key Industries

Officials believe the standards will accelerate decarbonisation across several hard-to-abate sectors. For instance, industries such as fertilisers, maritime shipping, and heavy manufacturing will benefit from reliable supplies of certified green fuels.

Moreover, the policy is designed to strengthen India’s credibility in the emerging global market for sustainable fuels. By aligning production with measurable environmental standards, the country aims to enhance its reputation as a dependable producer and exporter of green ammonia and green methanol.

Strengthening India’s Green Fuel Leadership

Importantly, the move also lays the groundwork for scaling up green hydrogen–based value chains in the coming years. As investments in renewable energy and hydrogen infrastructure grow, these standards will help guide industrial adoption and promote transparency in green fuel markets. As reported by devdiscourse.com, the initiative reinforces India’s commitment to energy transition while supporting its long-term ambition of becoming a major global supplier of low-carbon fuels.

Qatar Plant Incident Could Reduce LNG Supply to Urea Units

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India started rationing natural gas as disruptions in the Middle East affected global energy supplies. The move comes after production in Qatar was halted and shipping routes faced uncertainty due to the ongoing regional conflict. In response, Indian gas companies reduced supplies to several industrial consumers in anticipation of tighter LNG availability from the region. According to a report by Reuters, the government and energy firms are preparing contingency measures to manage potential shortages. The development could have significant implications for industries that depend heavily on natural gas, including fertilizers, petrochemicals and power generation.

Asian LNG Buyers Turn to Spot Markets

Countries across Asia have started preparing alternative procurement strategies. Government officials and company executives in Japan, Taiwan, Bangladesh and Pakistan said they do not expect immediate supply disruptions because some cargoes scheduled for this month have already arrived.

However, if the conflict continues, these countries plan to diversify supply sources and increase purchases from the LNG spot market to maintain energy security. According to shipping analytics firm Kpler, Asian buyers account for more than 80% of LNG shipments from Qatar, the world’s second-largest LNG producer after the United States.

Taiwan Activates Emergency Energy Response

Among the affected economies, Taiwan has taken early precautionary steps. The island generates more than 40% of its electricity from LNG and imports nearly one-third of its gas from Qatar, making it particularly sensitive to supply disruptions.

Taiwan’s economy ministry said the country will increase LNG purchases from the United States and may coordinate with regional partners such as Japan and South Korea if shipping disruptions continue. Cho Jung-tai, Premier of Taiwan, said the government has activated an emergency response mechanism to handle the supply uncertainty. “We will continue moving in the direction we have been pursuing all along: obtaining sufficient quantities of energy through diversified markets,” Cho said.

Japan Weighs Market and Utility Options

Japan, the world’s second-largest LNG importer, also signalled readiness to manage potential shortages. The country currently sources around 4% of its LNG from Qatar. Officials said Japanese utilities could purchase additional cargoes from the spot market or redistribute supplies among power companies if disruptions intensify. These contingency measures aim to ensure energy stability while global LNG markets respond to the evolving geopolitical situation.

Regional Energy Markets on Alert

Overall, the developments highlight Asia’s heavy dependence on LNG imports from the Middle East. While immediate supply shocks appear limited, governments and energy companies are closely monitoring the situation. As reported by reuters.com, if the conflict persists and shipping disruptions worsen, Asian economies may increasingly rely on diversified LNG suppliers and spot market purchases to maintain stable energy supplies.

Birla Carbon Spain Secures €2 Million SODERCAN Grant to Boost Energy Autonomy

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Birla Carbon’s Spanish subsidiary has secured a €2 million (US$2.3 million) grant from Society for Regional Development of Cantabria S.A. (SODERCAN), a public entity of the Government of Cantabria, to strengthen its energy autonomy initiative at the company’s Cantabria plant.

The announcement was made in late February during a visit by regional leaders, including María José Sáenz de Buruaga, President of Cantabria; Eduardo Arasti, Cantabria’s Minister of Industry, Employment, Innovation and Trade; and Ángel Pedraja, CEO of SODERCAN. The funding forms part of a broader investment programme designed to improve energy efficiency and self-sufficiency at the facility.

Steam Turbine Project to Strengthen Energy Self-Sufficiency

As part of the initiative, Birla Carbon Spain will install a 4 MW back-pressure steam turbine at the Cantabria plant. The system will allow the facility to generate electricity and steam internally, reducing dependence on external energy sources. The investment is expected to enhance operational efficiency while supporting the plant’s long-term sustainability goals. By integrating power and steam generation within the facility, the company aims to improve energy management and reinforce its industrial resilience.

Leadership Highlights Sustainability Commitment

Dale Clark, Chief Manufacturing Officer – Americas & EMEA at Birla Carbon, emphasised, “We were honored to welcome the President of Cantabria, the Minister of Employment, Innovation and Trade of Cantabria, and the CEO of SODERCAN to our Cantabria plant. Their support reflects the strategic importance of our operations to the region and the industries we serve with our carbon black solutions.” He added that the new turbine will play a crucial role in helping the plant achieve greater energy autonomy while reducing its carbon footprint.

“The steam turbine will be key in helping the plant achieve energy autonomy, reducing our carbon footprint, and strengthening long-term operational resilience. At Birla Carbon, we remain focused on improving energy efficiency, lowering water consumption, and advancing sustainable manufacturing practices across our global operations.”

Regional Government Backs Industrial Transformation

Regional authorities highlighted that the project aligns with Cantabria’s broader strategy to strengthen industrial competitiveness and support sustainable manufacturing. President María José Sáenz de Buruaga said, “With this contribution, not only does Birla Carbon win, but Cantabria wins too, because we are making decisive progress in transforming our production model and reinforcing our commitment to industrialization.”

Strengthening Cantabria’s Industrial Ecosystem

During the site visit, President Sáenz de Buruaga received a detailed briefing on the technical and environmental aspects of the project. She described the initiative as a “collective success,” acknowledging Birla Carbon Spain’s strategic role in the region’s industrial landscape. As per the press release, the project also reinforces the company’s reputation as a benchmark for innovation and sustainable industrial development in Europe, while supporting the transition toward more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible manufacturing.

Godavari Highlights Bioeconomy Transition at Bio Innovations APAC 2026

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Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. (GBL), one of India’s leading integrated biorefineries, showcased its “soil to bio-products” innovation approach at Bio Innovations APAC 2026 held in Singapore on March 4–5. Recognised for its advances in bio-based chemicals and integrated biorefinery solutions, the company joined global industry leaders to discuss strategies for accelerating the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy.

Dr. Sangeeta Srivastava, Executive Director, delivered a keynote address and also participated in a fireside chat titled “From the Soil to Valuable Bio-Chemicals and Bio-Products.” Her participation highlighted how agricultural resources can be transformed into high-value industrial materials through biotechnology and innovation.

Integrated Biorefinery Model Driving Sustainable Solutions

At the heart of GBL’s strategy is its integrated biorefinery model, which converts agricultural feedstocks into a diverse portfolio of bio-based products. By combining agriculture, industrial biotechnology and advanced processing, the company creates sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil-based chemical systems.

These bio-based outputs include:

*Food ingredients

*Biofuels

*Specialty biochemicals

The products further serve industries such as skincare, cosmetics, agrochemicals, adhesives and coatings. Through this approach, the company demonstrates how renewable carbon sources can support multiple industrial value chains while reducing environmental impact.

Innovation Across the Entire Value Chain

During her keynote address, Dr. Srivastava emphasised that meaningful climate action in the chemical sector requires innovation across the entire value chain. “Innovation must begin with feedstock development and extend to end products, efficient processes, supportive policies, regulations and financing. Looking at the carbon source from the field where it is generated is extremely important. We need to move from an oil-based economy to a soil-based economy,” she stated.

She further noted that no single technology can solve emissions challenges in the chemical industry. Instead, multiple initiatives—from sustainable farming and feedstock development to advanced manufacturing—must work together.

“Innovation is required at every stage—from farm, soil and feedstock to finished products and beyond. The focus must remain at the intersection of ecology and economy. ESG is not a peripheral activity; it is embedded in our biomass-based growth model through co-creation with our stakeholders,” Dr. Sangeeta added.

Strengthening Collaboration in the APAC Biomanufacturing Ecosystem

The conference brought together stakeholders from across the Asia-Pacific industrial biomanufacturing ecosystem, including technology developers, chemical companies, investors and policymakers. In addition to panel discussions and keynote sessions, the event also hosted targeted one-to-one meetings, enabling companies to explore collaborations, partnerships and innovation opportunities.

Reinforcing Leadership in Industrial Biotechnology

Participation in Bio Innovations APAC 2026 further strengthens Godavari Biorefineries’ position as a key voice in industrial biotechnology and sustainable manufacturing. As per the press release, as global industries accelerate their shift toward renewable carbon pathways, the company continues to develop scalable solutions that link agriculture, science and industry. By doing so, it is helping shape a future where bio-based innovation drives both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

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