Circular solutions


MINDING OUR FOOTPRINT
For AkzoNobel, sustainability means delivering value for all our stakeholders. AkzoNobel has a strong track record of introducing sustainable coating solutions. It’s our driver for growth, innovation and productivity. We still see many opportunities for optimizing the use of material resources across the full coatings value chain. We will continue to do our part in the transition to a circular economy, while living up to both financial and societal expectations.
What do we mean by circular economy?
Traditionally paints and coatings are linear production systems capturing only obvious recycling opportunities. Waste paints – along with the substrates they protect – and packaging are often disposed of in incinerators and landfills. Transitioning to the circular economy could change that.
Transformation to a circular model is not the same as only promoting the recycling of paints and coatings. Circular economy means finding alternative sources for our raw materials, as well as extending the functionality of the materials in paints and coatings after their use. It requires a different mindset to recognize the potential for circular solutions, while overcoming legal and practical hurdles.
A value chain of opportunities
When looking at the full value chain for our paints and coatings products, we know there are many opportunities to close the loop of materials.
We strive to be resourceful, inventive and sustainable in enabling the circular use of materials and our products – and we need your help. Together, let’s find new ways to eliminate waste throughout our value chain; adopt alternative sources for our raw materials; or through innovative products, help our customer be more circular.

Outside the can at AkzoNobel
In a cooperation between AkzoNobel and Dutch company Black Bear, used car tires are being harvested for carbon black, and used as a pigment in powder coatings. Learn more here: akzonobel.com
What we’re looking for
- Your solution is not just in your head. There is a clear proof of concept which is ready to be further developed for this purpose
- It contributes to the circularity of materials without increasing other environmental impacts (such as climate change, biodiversity, toxicity, etc.)
- It’s an innovative solution that impacts one of the following areas:
- Use of bio-based or recycled raw materials
- Reduction of paints and coatings waste, or high value repurposing
Have you got the solution?
We are closed for submissions, we will announce the finalists on April 11!
- Challenges