Recent developments
Biobased butadiene progress
The BioButterfly™ project, a collaboration between Michelin, IFPEN, and Axens, progressed biobased butadiene from bioethanol. An industrial demonstrator in Bassens validated process robustness using first- and second-generation feedstocks, enabling 100% bio-sourced origin. The butadiene was converted into BR and SBR meeting polymer-grade specifications, with technology homologation targeted by mid-2026 to enable commercialization.
Wood-based chemical output
UPM's Leuna biorefinery in Germany began commercial production of wood-based chemicals, achieving stable separation of lignin and sugars for conversion to renewable glycols and functional fillers. Once fully operational, capacity is planned at 220,000 t/a, with additional products expected by H1 2026. The facility supports transitions from fossil-based to renewable materials across multiple industries and EU decarbonization goals.
Sustainability benchmarking updates
The Oita Plant of Japan Elastomer earned an EcoVadis Platinum Medal in October 2025, placing it in the top 1% of companies assessed. This is its second Platinum after 2023. Scores were particularly high for Environment and Labor & Human Rights, reflecting third-party recognition of sustainability practices in elastomer operations.