Imagine if intelligent polymer gel, willow glass and transparent alumina were commonplace. What would be possible for industry and individuals? We live in a material world, and the future of materials will impact all of us, at home and at work. But the requirements to achieve net-zero targets and make investments to reduce GHG emissions pose significant challenges for material producers, raising questions about the mid-term attractiveness of the sector.

Accenture conducted a comprehensive study of the history of materials, assessing development, consumption and growth trends across categories. Looking back, the research shows that Europe’s share of global materials production declined over the last two decades. Looking forward, the opportunity that comes from producing new materials, in new combinations, with an evolving range of properties is bigger than ever. Demand for these materials, especially those that are smart and sustainable, is being shaped by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, customer net-zero commitments and the essential needs of our daily lives. However, how chemical companies meet this demand will be different from how they’ve operated in the past and will likely be a story of convergence—between the physical and digital worlds, classes of materials, and established players and startups.

Cefic members are invited to join this session to discuss the exciting world of future materials and the role that the EU chemical industry can play in making these breakthrough innovations a reality—for its customers, for consumers and for the planet.