Ambitious proposals for the future of European chemistry research have been unveiled by SusChem, the European technology platform for sustainable chemistry.

Ambitious proposals for the future of European chemistry research have been unveiled by SusChem, the European technology platform for sustainable chemistry.  

Its implementation action plan (IAP) outlines key research areas where chemistry can improve its environmental and economic sustainability, and SusChem now hopes to focus European spending in chemical research and development into those fields. Three visionary projects - including a ’smart energy home’ and improved biorefineries - are helping to shape specific project proposals that could request funding from the EU’s seventh research framework programme (FP7), which is currently expected to begin taking applications in early 2007. Further research cash could come from the governments of individual member states, and industry. Overall, around €1.4 billion (?938 million) of research funding could be tapped every year to help achieve SusChem’s vision, about half of which should come from the private sector. An important benefit of the network is that it should help to improve collaboration and avoid duplication of research, said Rodney Townsend, director of science and technology at the RSC, a major partner in SusChem. 

The IAP is open for public consultation until the end of October 2006, and a finalised plan will be published before the end of the year.  

Mark Peplow