Global Renewable Chemicals Market 2024–2033

Reports Description

Global Renewable Chemicals Market was valued at USD 124.6 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 270.8 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 11.3% during the forecast period 2023 – 2032.

Renewable chemicals are derived from sustainable feedstocks such as biomass, agricultural residues, or waste materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrochemicals.

These substances can be used in the production of various materials, including plastics, solvents, and biofuels, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impact.

Renewable Chemicals Market – Significant Growth Factors

Rising consumption of renewable alcohol for industrial application

The escalating demand for renewable alcohol in industrial applications propels the growth of the renewable chemicals market. Renewable alcohol, often derived from bio-based feedstocks, serves as a key raw material for producing sustainable chemicals.

Industries increasingly favour these eco-friendly alternatives to conventional petrochemicals, driven by environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. As the consumption of renewable alcohol rises, it fuels innovation and investment in the renewable chemicals sector, stimulating the development of greener solutions.

This surge in demand not only aligns with sustainability goals but also fosters a transition towards more environmentally conscious industrial practices, contributing to the expansion of the renewable chemicals market. For instance, in March 2022, emerging companies are positioning chemical-based recycling technologies for major fiber, encompassing cotton and synthetic materials like polyester and nylon.

In 2020, global fiber production reached 109 million tons, with polyester constituting over half and cotton around a quarter, as reported by Textile Exchange.

Growing demand for bio-based polymer fuel market growth

The surging demand for bio-based polymers is a pivotal driver propelling the renewable chemicals market. Bio-based polymers, sourced from renewable feedstocks like biomass, present a greener and more eco-friendly option.

These polymers, often used in various applications, including packaging and automotive industries, contribute to reducing the reliance on traditional petrochemicals. Manufacturers increasingly turn to renewable feedstocks and processes to produce these bio-based polymers, creating a positive feedback loop.

This demand-driven dynamic not only stimulates innovation and investment in the renewable chemicals sector but also reinforces the overall transition towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly industrial landscape. The symbiotic relationship between bio-based polymers and renewable chemicals underscores their pivotal role in driving the green revolution across diverse industries.

For instance, in October 2022, CoEI established an advanced laboratory to modify biopolymers. To diversify its usage across various sectors, including packaging, food service, consumer goods, agriculture, textiles, electronics, and energy storage.

Renewable Chemicals Market – Restraints

Complex manufacturing processes increase product cost

The renewable chemicals market faces challenges due to the complexity of manufacturing processes, which contributes to increased product costs and impedes overall growth. The intricate procedures involved in deriving chemicals from renewable sources often demand advanced technologies and specialized equipment, driving up production expenses.

These elevated costs can discourage widespread adoption as industries may find it economically challenging to transition from conventional, cheaper alternatives. Moreover, the need for additional infrastructure and skilled labour to manage complex processes further adds to the overall expenses. As a result, the higher upfront costs associated with manufacturing renewable chemicals become a barrier, hindering market growth.

Addressing these cost challenges through research, technological innovations, and economies of scale will be crucial to making renewable chemicals more competitive and facilitating their broader integration into mainstream industries.

Stringent rules for approval of Renewable Chemicals

Stringent rules for the approval of renewable chemicals pose a challenge to the industry. Several key considerations and rules typically govern the approval process:

• Product Performance and Quality Standards: Regulatory bodies may set performance and quality standards for renewable chemicals to ensure they meet or exceed the efficacy of traditional counterparts.

• Biodegradability and Decomposition Studies: Facilities involved in renewable chemicals production must implement effective emission control measures to minimize the release of pollutants during manufacturing processes.

• Regulatory Compliance Assessment: Companies must assess their products against existing regulations and standards related to chemicals in the target market. Conduct rigorous testing to validate the performance, safety, and environmental impact of the renewable chemicals.

Renewable Chemicals Market – Opportunities

Rising awareness of sustainable products to reduce pollution

The escalating awareness of sustainable products is a driving force behind the growth of the renewable chemicals market. Consumers, driven by environmental consciousness, actively seek eco-friendly alternatives.

This heightened awareness influences purchasing decisions, prompting industries to adopt renewable chemicals in response to market demands. Companies increasingly prioritize sustainability to enhance their brand image and meet evolving consumer expectations.

Additionally, stringent environmental regulations further encourage the adoption of renewable chemicals. As awareness continues to rise, the market experiences sustained growth, fostering innovation and investment in sustainable practices to meet the demand for environmentally responsible products.

This collective push toward sustainability, fuelled by consumer awareness and regulatory measures, not only shapes purchasing behaviours but also fosters a transformative impact on the renewable chemicals market. The governments of several economies implemented strict regulations related to carbon and greenhouse gas emissions to promote high quality environment.

For instance, the European Commission aims to achieve an 80% reduction in the carbon emission by 2050. The regulatory bodies, such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and European Commission impose strict environmental regulations on the production and disposal of petrochemicals.

For instance, in August 2023, Noah Chemicals was a key player in sustainable chemical production, and actively embraced advanced methodologies. A notable trend in sustainable chemical manufacturing is the increasing adoption of renewable feedstocks and bio-based chemicals.

Renewable Chemicals Market – Segmentation Analysis

Renewable Chemicals market is segmented by type, application, and region.  Based on type, the market is classified into alcohols, organic acids, ketones, biopolymers, and others. Alcohols dominated the market in 2022 with a market share of 35% and are expected to keep their dominance during the forecast period 2024-2032.

Alcohol plays a pivotal role in propelling the renewable chemicals market, serving as a key feedstock for sustainable production. Derived from renewable sources like biomass, alcohol becomes a versatile building block for various eco-friendly chemicals. Its utilization in manufacturing processes, particularly in the production of bioplastics, solvents, and biofuels, reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

As global industries increasingly prioritize environmental responsibility, the demand for renewable alcohol escalates, driving innovation and investment in the renewable chemicals sector. This trend aligns with sustainability goals, fostering a transition towards greener, more environmentally conscious industrial practices and contributing to the overall growth of the renewable chemicals market.

Based on application, the market is classified into transportation, textiles, petrochemicals, packaging, agriculture and others. The transportation segment dominated the market in 2022 with a market share of 30% and is expected to keep its dominance during the forecast period 2024-2032. Transportation plays a pivotal role in propelling the renewable chemicals market forward.

The shift towards sustainable and bio-based materials in transportation fuels and lubricants is a key driver. As the automotive and aviation industries seek to reduce their carbon footprint, there’s a growing demand for renewable chemicals as feedstocks for biofuels. This includes ethanol, biodiesel, and advanced biofuels derived from renewable sources, providing a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Moreover, the logistics and supply chains of renewable chemicals themselves benefit from environmentally conscious transportation practices. Companies increasingly prioritize eco-friendly shipping methods to align with sustainability goals, fostering the integration of renewable chemicals into various industries.

In essence, the transportation sector acts as both a consumer and a facilitator of renewable chemicals, driving market growth through the adoption of sustainable fuels and promoting environmentally friendly logistics practices.

Report Scope

Renewable Chemicals Market – Regional Insight

By region, renewable chemicals market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa. The Asia Pacific dominated the global renewable chemicals market in 2022 with a market share of 35% in 2022 and is expected to keep its dominance during the forecast period 2024-2032.

The Asia-Pacific region plays a pivotal role in propelling the renewable chemicals market. Rapid industrialization, coupled with a burgeoning population, has heightened environmental concerns, driving the demand for sustainable alternatives.

Governments in the region are implementing stringent environmental regulations and promoting green initiatives, encouraging industries to embrace renewable chemicals. Additionally, Asia-Pacific boasts abundant feedstock resources, such as agricultural and forestry residues, providing a favourable landscape for bio-based production.

Growing consumer awareness and a shift toward eco-friendly products further boost the adoption of renewable chemicals. The region’s strategic investments in research, development, and innovation contribute to technological advancements, making renewable solutions more economically viable.

As industries increasingly prioritize sustainability, influence global market dynamics and contribute significantly to the growth and widespread adoption of renewable chemicals.

Renewable Chemicals Market – Recent Developments

• In September 2023, BASF introduced its first biomass plastic additives. These innovations facilitate the substitution of fossil feedstock with renewable alternatives this initiative actively propels the renewable chemicals market by fostering the adoption of bio-based materials in plastic production.

• In May 2022, Verdant unveiled its inaugural range of eco-friendly specialty chemicals, targeting applications in pulp, textiles, nonwovens, and hemp industries. These green chemical innovations, formulating products derived from plants, soil, and natural earth resources.

• In July 2020, Praj Industries, a biotech process engineering firm, launched renewable chemicals and materials (RCM) with the introduction of its new Bio-Prism portfolio.

List of the prominent players in the Renewable Chemicals Market:

• BASF SE
• Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation
• Braskem
• OCI N.V.
• Solvay
• Corbion N.V.
• NatureWorks LLC
• Amyris
• Myriant Coperation
• Evonik Industries
• Novamont S.p.A.
• BioAmber
• Neste
• LyondellBasell
• Toray Industries
• PTT Global Chemical PCL
• Genomatica
• LanzaTech
• Metabolic Explorer
• Arbios
• Others

These key players are adopting various growth strategies such as merger & acquisitions, joint ventures, expansion, strategic alliances, new product launches, etc. to enhance their business operations and revenues.

The Renewable Chemicals Market is segmented as follows:

By Feedstock

• Corn
• Sugarcane
• Biomass
• Algae
• Others

By Product

• Ethanol
• Methanol
• Ketones
• Glycerol
• Organic Acids
• Bio-Polymers
• Platform Chemicals
• Others

By End-Use Industry

• Petrochemical
• Food & Beverage
• Automotive
• Chemical
• Agricultural
• Packaging
• Textile
• Medical
• Others

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Russia
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America