B4: Better Biobased Building Blocks

Sustainable Alternative to Fossil-Based Construction Materials

The construction sector faces a major challenge to reduce CO₂ emissions by 50% by 2030 and even 90% by 2050. Many commonly used fossil-based construction materials, such as aromatics, will need to be replaced by biobased alternatives. Aromatics, currently largely derived from fossil resources, are found in products such as paint, glue, insulation materials, and foams. The B4 project demonstrates that biobased aromatics can successfully replace fossil-based aromatics in at least six applications within the construction industry, including coatings, composites, and acrylic and epoxy resins.

Innovative Collaboration for a Sustainable Transition

The B4 project is carried out by a consortium of small and medium-sized enterprises (Relement, Impershield, Baril Coatings, Bodewes, and Progression-Industry), large corporations (Westlake Epoxy, Worlée), and knowledge institutions such as TNO, VITO, and Avans University of Applied Sciences. The partners combine their expertise to demonstrate that green alternatives are not only more sustainable but can also be produced commercially at scale. The Green Chemistry Campus in Bergen op Zoom serves as the central hub for the further development of innovative bio-aromatic technologies.

From Knowledge Sharing to Practical Application

Beyond technological innovation, the B4 project also aims to engage a wide audience in the raw materials transition. In collaboration with the Green Chemistry Campus, workshops and events will be organized for SMEs, students, employees in the chemical industry, and policymakers. This initiative positions West North Brabant as the hotspot for biobased building blocks in the construction sector.

An Opportunity for the Region

With funding from the European Union’s Just Transition Fund, the B4 project aims to transform West North Brabant and create sustainable economic opportunities for the region. By utilizing agricultural residues as raw materials and strengthening the chemical sector, the project will contribute to job creation and stimulate a new revenue model for the agricultural sector.

The B4 project has a total budget of €4.4 million and is co-funded by the European Union’s Just Transition Fund, the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, and the Province of North Brabant.

Want to Learn More?

For more information about the B4 project, contact project leader Paul Könst at paul.konst@tno.nl or +31 (0)6 25 04 13 79.