Scottish biorefinery sends world’s first tanker of green chemicals

The first tanker of sustainably produced bioacetone and biobutanol has been dispatched from Celtic Renewables’ flagship biorefinery in Grangemouth - marking a major milestone for the world’s shift to green chemicals.
This achievement is backed by over £60 million (€71 million) in funding which enabled the construction of Scotland’s first biorefinery and its commercial-scale operations.
The cargo containing bioacetone and biobutanol is on its way to a processing plant in Chesterfield as part of a long-term deal with internationally renowned chemical distribution company, Caldic.
Mark Simmers, CEO of Celtic Renewables, said: “Our plant is the first of its kind, turning our ideas and aspirations into reality. As the world’s first biorefinery to produce and supply green chemicals at this scale, we are proud to lead the way in the green chemical revolution.
“From an idea that started out in the lab, our fermentation is now at a scale of 100,000 litres for each batch that we run through – a process that has been born, developed and proven in Scotland where our global technology centre is based.
“We are already looking into three to four larger scale biorefinery opportunities which we are aiming to develop in the next four to five years, with a combined output of 32,000 tonnes per annum. We are seeking to deploy our tech through licensing and partnerships across the globe.
“The chemical industry relies heavily on fossil fuels, but we know the demand for green chemicals is incredibly strong. Our bioacetone and biobutanol can reduce the chemical industry’s carbon emissions, and our technology has the potential to dramatically reduce the environmental footprint of everyday consumer products. We now have the tools and commercial capability to displace the chemicals made from gas and oil in the manufacturing process.”
Bettina Brierley, Product Group Leader Caldic UK, says: “Celtic Renewables’ green chemicals directly improves our customers’ ESG ratings. They represent true circularity and will support our customers in reaching net zero by 2050.
“Our customers have been waiting for a solution like this for a long time. Demand for bioacetone and biobutanol is high, and therefore manufacturers are ready to shift away from fossil fuels. Our customers are driven by net zero targets and the desire to make cleaner and greener products. We have not seen such a significant carbon footprint reduction in any mainstream chemical before.
“With years of research and testing behind them, Celtic Renewables has developed high-quality green chemicals that can displace their petrochemical equivalents. This facility is at the forefront of green chemical production, and we are delighted to be able to support our clients in creating a more sustainable production model that is kinder to the planet.”