A novel initiative towards developing plant-based chemistry for a sustainable future


Industry dependence on external fossil fuel resources, fluctuations in energy and raw materials costs, climate change, environmental regulations, changing consumer attitudes etc.
In France, where agriculture and the chemical industry are two pillars of the economy, these harsh realities have prompted the chemical and agro-resources sectors to look tobio-based chemistry as a means of diversifying outlets for biomass and chemical sourcing, with the aim of balanced use.
French players in this international sector have realised the value of joining forces, pooling skills, knowhow and resources into a single structure to drive forward the development of bio-based chemistry.
This shared vision and determination resulted in the creation in 2008 of the French bio-based chemistry association, Association Chimie du Végétal (ACDV).
This initiative, still the first of its kind, brings together within a single federation all those directly involved in bio-based chemistry.
ACDV's stated aim: to propose and create industrial, economic and political conditions conducive to the development of this industrial reality, within a context of competitive, responsible and sustainable agricultural and chemical sectors.
ACDV acts as a source of creative ideas, presenting national and European bodies with the strategic vision and position of French industrialists as regards the international development and competitiveness of bio-based chemistry.
A commitment by the French chemicals industry to a target of 15% bio-based raw materials by 2017 is one of the key factors underpinning the work of the ACDV.
 









  • representing and promoting the bio-based chemicals sector.
    The Association will draft a series of common positions and arguments, aimed at players in the bio-based chemical industry, the French and European authorities, the media and NGOs, so as to build an appropriate framework for the development of bio-based chemical intermediaries.

  • identifying major challenges facing the industry.
    This involves guiding the industry on which areas to direct their R&D efforts, and to promote innovation, particularly in the field of industrial biotechnology, using demonstrations of future integrated bio-refineries.

  • implementing a survey on economic and technical intelligence
    This would involve the launch of an international survey and investigations to evaluate current technological and economic trends in the bio-based chemical sector, worldwide. It would be conducted by a team of scientists, expert in this field.

  • embarking on strategic planning for the various paths of action to be taken for different market sectors (e.g. construction, cosmetics, automotives, aeronautics, and packaging).