Visual WACK

Circular chemicals/plastics in Flanders

Flanders intends to become a leading circular hub for chemicals and plastics in Europe by 2030. This will only be possible through cooperation - within the value chain, between sectors and across regional borders. For example, the trilateral cooperation between Flanders, the Netherlands and North Rhine-Westphalia. This already plays a crucial role in connecting industrial ecosystems around the port clusters of Antwerp, Rotterdam and the Rhineland. 

With a strong industrial base, cutting-edge knowledge institutions and an active ecosystem of companies, governments and civil society organisations, Flanders has all the trumps to realise this ambition.  

The strategic agenda chemicals & plastics translates this ambition into four strategic work paths. Together, they provide a framework to develop concrete actions, seize opportunities and overcome obstacles. Each work path focuses on transition, innovation and impact. They are mutually compatible and mutually reinforcing in practice. 

Everything comes around again - recycling in practice

recyclage plastic

Everything comes around again - recycling in practice

We are aiming for a system where materials become raw materials again. This demands more recycling and better and higher quality recycling technologies - mechanical, physical and chemical.  

We are working to scale up recycling hubs, sorting innovations and market applications for recycled raw materials. Flanders wants to be a pioneer in closing material cycles. With reliable local supply and a market for recyclate.

Bio-based raw materials - sustainable alternatives

algen

Bio-based raw materials - sustainable alternatives

Bio-based materials are an important alternative to fossil resources. We are exploring how to use biomass streams (such as wood waste, algae and agricultural residues) sustainably and efficiently as a basis for chemicals and plastics. With a focus on as much value creation, carbon reduction and responsible land use and biodiversity as possible.  

Flanders is investing in knowledge, pilot projects and scale-up to make bio-based innovation a reality.

CO₂ as feedstock - circular carbon management

ccu

CO₂ as feedstock - circular carbon management

In a climate-neutral industry, CO₂ is not a residual stream, but a raw material. We are committed to Carbon Capture & Utilisation (CCU) as part of a broader circular carbon strategy. For example, producing basic chemicals from captured CO₂, combined with renewable energy.  

The strategic agenda connects players around concrete CCU pilots and policy innovation. In this way, we are helping to lay the foundation for a European value chain around CO₂ reuse.

Ecodesign - circular from design onward

ecodesign plastic

Ecodesign - circular from design onward

A circular supply chain starts with smart choices at the design stage. Via ecodesign, we strive for products that last longer. Products you can reuse or disassemble. And which are made with safe and recycled materials. This also includes leaving out substances of concern and encouraging futureproof material choices.  

Flanders is making ecodesign a lever for innovation, legislation and a market shift.