GC3 Member Update - February 2021

GC3 Releases New Report on Circular Economy

This week, the GC3 released a new report offering fresh thinking to add to the global discussion on the circular economy.  The GC3 Blueprint of Green Chemistry Opportunities for a Circular Economy explores the synergies between green chemistry principles and the circular economy framework. Each has the opportunity to enable and optimize the other, and this report focuses on the innovations needed to realize those opportunities.

GC3 members are increasingly challenged to achieve multiple sustainability objectives, such as those outlined in the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including carbon reduction and circularity. There are increasing policy, marketplace, and investor demands for more circular materials and products. The GC3 Blueprint of Green Chemistry Opportunities for a Circular Economy report expands upon the circular economy goals, as developed by prominent organizations such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, to provide a framework to support materials development and selection as companies and others seek to transition towards a safe and sustainable circular economy.

The GC3 Blueprint serves as a foundational starting point, intended to evolve based on feedback and stakeholder engagement. In 2021, GC3 will host a new value chain discussion group, facilitating dialogue on how to co-optimize the circularity, safety, and sustainability of chemicals, materials, and products, while minimizing potential trade-offs. Please contact Rachel Simon for more information.

 New Research Project: Building the Business Case for
Green & Sustainable Chemistry Investments

The GC3 and the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production at UMass Lowell have teamed up with researchers from the North Carolina State University, Duke University, and New York University to conduct research and analysis to support development of a stronger business case for decision-makers in industry and the investment community and policy makers on the benefits of investments in “green and sustainable chemistry products” and risks of not investing in such products.

Please take a few minutes to share your perspective. We are asking companies along the value chain to please complete this questionnaire by February 24th, 2021.

Open Position for a Postdoctoral Research Associate

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is looking for a great Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Collaborative for Safe and Sustainable Chemistry to undertake research and outreach on tools, drivers, and methods that support that the design, evaluation and adoption of safer, more sustainable chemicals, materials, and products. Please forward the above link to anyone with outstanding skills who is interested in joining the team.

First Virtual GC3 Speed Scouting Event for
Startups Draws 70 Participants

The GC3 serves as an important connector between well-established companies across the full value chain and emerging innovators with exciting new sustainable chemistry technologies. Recently, nearly 70 GC3 members participated in the first-ever virtual GC3 Speed Scouting event. It was a great opportunity to check in with the startups and explore recent advances in development, commercialization, and scale up. In case you missed it, the session recording and a contact list are now available exclusively to GC3 members.