NEXCARB

Despite European and national climate targets, the demand for fossil-based plastics remains high because they are significantly cheaper than circular or bio-based alternatives. Falling virgin material prices slow down the development of a market for sustainable plastics. At the same time, Europe continues to depend heavily on fossil imports. Strengthening regional value chains and increasing the use of recyclates and bio-based feedstock are therefore essential. German-Dutch cooperation offers strong strategic advantages.
NEXCARB: NEXt-generation CARBon materials for sustainable markets is a cross-border project that stimulates the production and scaling of sustainable, fossil-free materials and products, with a strong focus on plastics. The project connects demand-driven innovation with SMEs and large companies/brand owners in the German–Dutch border region. By identifying latent market demand, translating it into concrete innovation challenges, and supporting SMEs in developing applicable solutions, NEXCARB bridges the gap between market needs and supply.
NEXCARB builds on earlier initiatives such as Two4C and Place to Be, which have already established strong networks of companies and knowledge institutions. The project aligns with existing regional and national funding instruments for scaling proven innovations and facilitates cross-border collaboration.
The project focuses on sectors such as construction, textiles, packaging and biochemistry, and stimulates value-chain collaboration between producers, developers and end users. Since plastics and recyclates pose significant challenges in these sectors, NEXCARB concentrates specifically on this theme. It strengthens regional innovation capacity and supports the development of a resilient, cross-border value chain. Through this programme, a demand-driven business model for fossil-free materials and products is developed, accelerating the transition to a circular and low-carbon economy.