Arkema Advances to Reduce Carbon Footprint of the Global Production with Bio-Based Polyamide 11 Chain

Arkema has achieved a significant reduction of 46% in the carbon footprint of its bio-based Rilsan® polyamide 11 grades, resulting in an impressively low emissions rate of less than 2 kg CO2e/kg. This milestone was reached through a combination of strategies, including the utilization of renewable or low carbon energy sources and the implementation of various energy efficiency enhancements across its production facilities. It's noteworthy that this achievement represents an approximate 70% improvement compared to traditional polyamide resins, which rely on fossil-based raw materials and conventional energy sources.

Rilsan® polyamide 11 is a material derived entirely from renewable castor seeds. It is worth highlighting that this bio-based polyamide 11 is 100% segregated from non-renewable sources, further cementing its sustainable credentials. Additionally, both the amino 11 monomer and the downstream polymers used in its production are crafted using a substantial proportion of low carbon and renewable energy. This extends to both electricity generation and combustible fuels, reinforcing the commitment to reducing carbon emissions throughout the entire production chain.

Arkema has recently taken significant steps to bolster its commitment to sustainable practices. One noteworthy development is the biomethane supply agreement entered into with ENGIE in France. This agreement underscores the company's dedication to sourcing renewable energy sources and further reducing its environmental impact.

The company has also made substantial investments in improving the energy efficiency of its polyamide 11 chain production sites over the past year. These efforts are emblematic of Arkema's proactive approach to reducing its carbon footprint and addressing climate change challenges.

Erwoan Pezron, Senior Vice President of Arkema's High Performance Polymers, underscored the significance of these achievements, stating, "This is an important step for our customers and the markets we serve." He emphasized that the reduced carbon footprint applies not to a specific subset of product grades or a particular location but to Arkema's entire global production. This holistic approach enables customers to align with their sustainability goals and develop more environmentally friendly products on a larger scale.

Moreover, Arkema has outlined an ambitious action plan aimed at further decarbonizing its product range, with a clear target set for 2030 to reduce the carbon footprint by an additional 50%. This demonstrates the company's unwavering commitment to delivering high-performance materials with one of the lowest carbon footprints in the market.

Arkema's journey toward reducing its carbon footprint is a multifaceted endeavor encompassing sustainable raw materials, the adoption of renewable energy sources, and the optimization of manufacturing processes. This comprehensive approach reflects the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and its role in mitigating climate change impacts.