The NEXT-STEP project aims to develop a sustainable chemical platform for producing bio-based products, such as polyurethane and polylactic acid co-polymers, using second-generation feedstocks from sustainably managed forests. The project aims to reduce manufacturing costs and environmental impact by using hardwood sugars. The initiative involves 12 partners from 8 European countries, including Adidas, to develop a new chemical platform, 3-methyl-d-valerolactone (3MdVL).
The project has six specific objectives: sourcing and optimizing feedstocks, scaling up production processes, unlocking the use of 3MdVL and 3-methyl-2-piperidone (3MPD) as bio-based platform chemicals, designing commercially viable building blocks, demonstrating the applicability of 3MdVL and 3MPD, and creating a commercially viable business and commercialization plan. The project is supported by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking and its members. The consortium aims to develop sustainable materials from feedstock to end-products, reducing environmental concerns while promoting the adoption of bio-based materials in various industries.