Renewable Carbon Initiative – Evaluation of Recent Reports on the Future of a Net-Zero Chemical Industry in 2050

The "Evaluation of Recent Reports on the Future of a Net-Zero Chemical Industry in 2050" by the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI) provides a comprehensive analysis of pathways toward defossilizing the chemical sector by mid-century. This report synthesizes findings from 15 studies encompassing 24 scenarios, highlighting a projected average annual growth rate of 2.9% in global feedstock demand for the chemical and plastics industries. It emphasizes a significant shift from fossil-based feedstocks to renewable alternatives, with biomass, carbon capture and utilization (CCU), and recycling identified as key pillars of this transition. The study underscores the necessity for continued innovation and investment in renewable carbon technologies to meet the ambitious net-zero targets set for 2050.