Innovate UK Business Connect’s Sustainable Chemicals Innovation Network (SusChem IN) was launched in 2025 to unite industry, innovators, and researchers to help reimagine carbon use and defossilise the UK chemicals sector. The network aims to support the transition to a more sustainable, resilient, and high‑growth economy, while contributing to the UK’s net‑zero ambitions.

Since its launch, SusChem IN has delivered a wide-ranging programme of activity designed to bring the sustainable chemicals community together and address key sector challenges. This has included a series of online webinars to share knowledge and build connections, alongside inperson workshops that explore sector-wide challenges and opportunities. The network has also published a number of perspective pieces, highlighting the role of sustainable carbon and the contribution the chemicals industry can make towards driving net zero.

Through this work, SusChem IN is supporting collaboration across separate sectors, recognising the foundational role chemicals play across the UK economy – from advanced manufacturing and energy to healthcare, construction, and consumer products. A key focus of the programme is helping to accelerate innovative solutions through connection, collaboration, and access to opportunity, including via the Innovation Exchange (iX) programme.

Innovate UK’s Sustainable Chemicals Innovation Network continues to focus on accelerating the defossilisation of the UK chemicals sector, supporting businesses that are developing low‑carbon, bio‑based, and circular solutions. The network is currently showcasing a selection of companies whose innovations demonstrate how sustainable chemicals can deliver both environmental impact and commercial value.

Featured case studies

17Cicada

Developing innovative methods to convert waste streams into valuable products, 17Cicada has progressed its technologies through multiple Innovate UK–supported projects.
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Revive Eco

A UK‑based team of innovators, scientists, and sustainability problem‑solvers transforming waste into opportunity. Their work focuses on converting used coffee grounds into high‑value, sustainable ingredients.
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ErebaGen

Using cutting‑edge biology to transform how chemicals are made, enabling more sustainable and efficient production methods.
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Holiferm

Developing sustainable biosurfactants: eco‑friendly, biodegradable, and non‑toxic surface‑active agents produced by microorganisms such as yeast or bacteria using renewable feedstocks rather than petrochemicals.
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Want to be part of the future of sustainable chemicals? Whether you’re looking to collaborate, invest, or find out more about the Sustainable Chemicals Innovation Network, visit the Sustainable Chemicals Innovation Network page to get involved.