Arkema, a global leader in specialty materials, has achieved a new milestone in its commitment to sustainability by obtaining ISCC PLUS certification for its manufacturing site in Changshu, China. This certification marks a significant step forward in Arkema’s journey towards more sustainable practices.
Through the ISCC PLUS certification and the Mass Balance approach, Arkema is now able to launch a new range of bio-attributed waterborne acrylic resins and additives in Asia. This means that the resins and additives are made using renewable resources, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. These innovative solutions are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable coatings in various sectors including new energies, e-mobility, building efficiency, and living comfort.
The ISCC PLUS certification of the Changshu site expands Arkema’s portfolio of renewable-based rheology modifiers and waterborne resins. It complements the company’s existing offerings of bio-based segregated resins and additives, which can contain up to 100% biobased content.
Heidi Wang, General Manager of Rheology/Specialty Additives and Coating Resins for Arkema in Greater China, emphasized the importance of transitioning towards more circular and renewable resources. “To mitigate climate change and preserve resources, we are progressively replacing virgin fossil feedstocks by renewable-based and more circular sources,” she said. “Alongside the segregated model, the mass balance approach allows industries to accelerate the reduction of CO2 emissions and foster circularity across the value chain.”
The ISCC PLUS certification of the Changshu facility adds to Arkema’s existing certifications in the US, Europe, and China. This global recognition further strengthens Arkema’s commitment to developing and providing sustainable solutions for its customers. Arkema plans to progressively introduce a complete range of bio-attributed specialty resins and additives for various technologies, including high solids, waterborne, UV/LED/EB, and polyester powders.
The Mass Balance approach, as outlined by the ISCC PLUS certification, ensures that the amount of certified renewable content is accurately tracked and allocated to the finished goods. This approach contributes to the responsible use of renewable resources and promotes transparency throughout the supply chain.
Building on its expertise in materials science, Arkema continues to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the evolving demands of the global market. The company’s commitment to sustainability is a key pillar of its strategic vision to become a pure player in Specialty Materials by 2024. Arkema’s three segments – Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions – collectively represent 92% of the Group’s sales in 2023, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable and innovative solutions. Arkema remains committed to addressing critical global challenges such as new energies, access to water, recycling, urbanization, and mobility. The company actively engages with stakeholders to ensure a collaborative approach to sustainable development.
Arkema generated approximately €9.5 billion in sales in 2023 and operates in 55 countries with a global workforce of 21,100 employees.
