Taiwan Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. and Nan Ya Plastics Corp. (NPC) have launched a joint initiative to develop the market for biomass-based plastic products. The collaboration will focus on utilizing sustainable feedstocks to produce plastics, aiming to reduce environmental impact and promote carbon neutrality. The initiative was officially set in motion in January 2025, with Taiwan Mitsui Chemicals providing biomass-based acetone produced through its newly acquired International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS system. This certification, which was secured in August 2024, allows the company to supply biomass-derived materials to the Taiwanese market.

NPC, which obtained its own ISCC PLUS certification in September 2024, will source biomass-based acetone from Taiwan Mitsui Chemicals to produce biomass-derived bisphenol A (BPA). This BPA will then be used to manufacture various biomass-based plastics, including epoxy and polycarbonate resins. These new materials will be able to replace traditional petroleum-derived chemicals and plastics due to their identical physical properties, making them a practical and eco-friendly alternative for a variety of industries.

The shift to biomass-based materials is expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the product life cycle. By replacing conventional petroleum-based plastics with biomass-derived alternatives, the companies aim to contribute to global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and promote sustainable industrial practices. Both Taiwan Mitsui Chemicals and NPC are committed to ensuring that their products meet environmental standards and will continue to expand their supply chain of eco-friendly solutions.

The companies plan to further develop and commercialize a wide range of products made from biomass-based plastics, promoting the transition toward a more sustainable future. This collaboration highlights the growing trend of integrating sustainability into manufacturing processes, reflecting a broader global push toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon footprints across industries.

As the global market shifts towards greener alternatives, Taiwan Mitsui Chemicals and NPC are poised to play a leading role in advancing the adoption of biomass-based plastics, offering environmentally responsible solutions to meet the evolving demands of the marketplace.

Mitsui Chemicals Inc., a Japanese chemical company, operates globally, including in Taiwan, offering a range of products and services. The company is committed to creating a sustainable society by leveraging chemistry to address pressing societal challenges. Through innovative solutions, Mitsui Chemicals aims to contribute to environmental and social progress, driving positive change across industries and communities worldwide.

Mitsui Chemicals develops and markets products across diverse industries, such as healthcare, mobility, electronics, and agriculture. The company focuses on creating eco-friendly materials and products that enhance the quality of life and contribute to environmental sustainability.