Advancing Sustainable Solutions Through Industry-Driven Research
Explore how cutting-edge research and industry collaboration in the global South are driving sustainable innovation in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This GC&E Global session will feature leading experts sharing practical approaches to decarbonization, circularity, and bio-based systems. Through a short talk, an industry case study, and an interactive discussion, discover strategies for translating research into impactful solutions across global value chains.
Session Goals & Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Understand how industry‑driven R&D in the Global South supports decarbonization and circular economy goals on a global scale
- Identify practical strategies for scaling sustainable chemistry solutions across global value chains
- Evaluate the role of bio‑based systems and renewable materials in reducing carbon footprints
- Learn from real‑world industry case studies that integrate performance, sustainability, and scalability
- Engage in dialogue around barriers, opportunities, and collaboration models for translating research into impact
Speakers
Building Resilience Through Circular Chemistry
This symposium brings together researchers, industry leaders, community advocates, and policymakers to examine how green chemistry can advance industrial infrastructure while improving public health.
The case study explored centers around Taraxacum kok‑saghyz (TKS), a common dandelion species native to central Asia. The roots of this small flowering plant offer a renewable domestic source of natural rubber leveraging existing agricultural infrastructure, while its leaves and bioactive compounds enable affordable nutraceutical applications that support population health. Together, these applications demonstrate how circular chemistry can strengthen material supply chains and enhance community well‑being.
Speakers will share perspectives spanning metabolomics‑guided discovery, sustainable product design, scale‑up engineering, community health outcomes, and policy. By pairing academic and industry experts and including voices from NGOs, government, and community partners, the session emphasizes translational innovation, equity, and environmental justice.
Attendees will learn:
- Practical insights into scaling bio‑based materials
- Pointers on integrating health considerations into product design
- Guidance on building effective industry–academia–community partnerships
Speakers
Sustainability in Beauty: Green Chemistry Innovations in Cosmetics & Personal Care
The cosmetics and personal care industry faces growing pressure to reduce environmental impact while meeting consumer demand for safe and effective products. This session will explore how green and sustainable chemistry are transforming formulation, packaging, and supply chains in the beauty sector. Topics will include the optimization of green chemistry metrics to better inform ingredient selection, practical considerations for enabling packaging sustainability, designing for next-generation cosmetic ingredients, and how accelerating regulatory complexity impacts beauty. Industry and academic researchers will share case studies and technological innovations that advance sustainability and transparency in cosmetic chemistry. Interactive discussions will address industry trends, consumer expectations, and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration. Participants will leave with actionable insights for designing products that are not only beautiful but also sustainability oriented.
