EuroChem Expo 2025, Europe’s premier chemical industry gathering, opened its doors in Berlin’s Messe Berlin on Thursday, welcoming 480+ exhibitors from 32 countries and over 18,000 industry professionals. The four-day event, themed “Green Chemistry for a Net-Zero Future”, has emerged as a key platform to align the chemical sector with the EU’s 2050 carbon neutrality goals, featuring cutting-edge technologies and cross-industry collaboration opportunities.

The Green Chemicals Pavilion stood out as a major attraction, where European giants like BASF and Solvay showcased low-carbon production solutions. BASF unveiled its “Carbon Capture & Reuse” system, which captures 90% of carbon emissions from chemical plants and converts them into raw materials for plastics. “This technology can cut our carbon footprint by 40% by 2030,” a BASF sustainability director explained. Solvay, meanwhile, presented a bio-based detergent ingredient made from sugarcane, which reduces water pollution by 60% compared to petroleum-derived alternatives—already adopted by three major European household care brands.

Cross-industry partnerships were a highlight, with chemical firms teaming up with automotive and construction sectors. Germany’s Covestro partnered with BMW to display a bio-based plastic car interior that is 100% recyclable and emits 35% less carbon during production. “This collaboration proves chemicals can drive sustainability in mobility,” a BMW materials specialist noted. In the construction zone, France’s Arkema showcased a low-VOC (volatile organic compound) coating for buildings, which improves indoor air quality by 50% and meets the EU’s strict EcoDesign standards.

The expo also hosted a policy forum with EU officials, who outlined new incentives for green chemical innovation—including a €500 million fund for startups developing carbon-negative technologies. “The chemical industry is critical to Europe’s net-zero plan, and we’re committed to supporting its transition,” an EU climate policy advisor said.

SMEs played a key role too. A Dutch startup, EcoChem, launched a portable water purification chemical that removes 99% of microplastics and heavy metals—securing partnerships with two European water treatment companies on the first day. “EuroChem Expo gave us access to buyers we couldn’t reach otherwise,” EcoChem’s founder shared.

Organizers projected over €300 million in business deals by the expo’s end. As day two begins, attendees anticipate more breakthroughs that will solidify Europe’s position as a leader in sustainable chemistry, driving global industry transformation.