Enriching our portfolio with circularity

Expanding our portfolio to contain more sustainable products is a crucial component of our commitment to sustainability at Caldic, and we recognize the importance of collaboration in realizing this objective. This is why we have been partnering with companies that share this commitment. 

Four years ago, we entered into a partnership with Celtic Renewables, a leading biotech company with a unique portfolio of bio-solvent solutions. Their bio-based alternatives to ingredients used in everyday items such as skin creams, nail varnish, household cleaning products, paints, medicines, and vitamins , which use conventional fossil-derived ingredients, are a game changer in the green chemicals market. Of course, we jumped at the opportunity to work together. 

The solvents are generated from waste and residues, thereby contributing to the principles of 'circular economy'; they also deliver 60% of carbon savings compared to the conventional fossil-derived solvents.

Product Manager Nicholas Veale at Caldic UK works with Celtic Renewables to develop the market for their portfolio. He explains why this partnership reflects Caldic’s commitment to sustainability. 

 
“Celtic’s operations are quite unique. Their refinery in Grangemouth, Scotland, operates similarly to an oil refinery but the bio-solvents produced are 60% more carbon efficient than traditional fossil-derived solvents,” says Nicholas.  
 
Like any manufacturer, the company needs raw materials to produce an end product. However, in this case, the raw materials are waste and residues sourced locally from other manufacturers. That could be anything but not limited to rejected potatoes  to pot ales (remains from whiskey distilleries). Once the materials are completely processed, solvents such as bio-ethanol, bio-acetone, and bio-butanol are generated. These solvents can be widely used in end applications in the personal care, industrial, and pharmaceutical markets.
 
The alignment with the company, thus, is not just the shared environmental goals but also the markets in which they operate. “Introducing bio-based alternatives to our range is an important step in helping our customers reduce their carbon footprint and achieve our sustainability goals,” explains Nicholas. 
 
Furthermore, since the solvents are generated from waste  and residues, they contribute to the principles of circular economy – further enhancing their environmental profile.

“We are in an age where we understand and have encountered the consequences of using products derived from fossil fuels. There is an urgent need for all of us to move toward a production chain that minimizes environmental impact. It is a constant learning process, but we will get there,” says Nicholas, before adding, “It is important that we explore the benefits of bio-based products and help our partners in making environmentally conscious choices.”

Interested in knowing more about how bio-based green chemicals can help you drive a lower footprint for your product range? Nicholas Veale and representatives from Celtic Renewables will be at ChemUK on 21st and 22nd May in Birmingham.

Nicholas Veale