SKZ to Host the Second CREATE Symposium on Biopolymers and Sustainable Plastics
SKZ to Host the Second CREATE Symposium on Biopolymers and Sustainable Plastics
SKZ, one of Germany's leading plastics research and technology centers, will organize the second CREATE Symposium on November 19, 2026, in Würzburg, Germany.
The event will focus on the industrial application, commercialization, and market development of bio-based plastics, bringing together manufacturers, research institutions, industry associations, and technology specialists.
From Research to Commercial Applications
The CREATE innovation network aims to accelerate the development and industrial adoption of bio-based plastics through cooperation between research organizations and industry.
With a growing network of 85 members, CREATE provides a platform for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the development of commercially viable biopolymer solutions.
The first CREATE Symposium, held in November 2025, attracted more than 100 participants.
Building on this success, the second symposium will place greater emphasis on practical applications, commercial opportunities, and the challenges involved in bringing sustainable polymer technologies to market.
Overcoming Challenges in Biopolymer Commercialization
Bio-based plastics offer significant opportunities to reduce dependence on fossil-based raw materials and support the transition toward a more sustainable plastics industry.
However, technical performance alone is not sufficient to ensure successful commercialization.
Production costs, regulatory requirements, raw material availability, supply chain resilience, and market acceptance must also be considered during product development.
According to Philipp Wohlfahrt, CREATE Project Manager and Scientist at SKZ, successful market introduction requires the early integration of economic, regulatory, and supply chain considerations alongside technical and environmental performance.
The symposium aims to bring these different perspectives together and identify practical solutions for industrial implementation.
Next-Generation Biopolymers and Industrial Applications
The technical program will feature presentations from organizations including European Bioplastics, nova-institut, and Fraunhofer.
Experts will discuss global and European market developments, commercialization strategies, and the industrial potential of innovative bio-based polymers.
Particular attention will be given to polybutylene succinate (PBS), a polymer offering promising opportunities for various industrial applications.
Short technical presentations will also highlight innovative developments, including:
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Commercial applications of polybutylene succinate (PBS)
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The use of natural and industrial residues in plastic compounds
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Bio-based coloring technologies
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Sorting and recycling of bio-based plastics
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The use of natural resins in starch-based compounds
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Sustainable plastics for agricultural applications
Workshops Focused on Practical Implementation
Three parallel workshops will explore the practical challenges associated with the commercial adoption of bio-based plastics.
The main topics will include market entry strategies, regulatory frameworks, and the utilization of industrial by-products and residual materials.
Industry experts from organizations including C.A.R.M.E.N. e.V., Chemie-Cluster Bayern, and abonocare will contribute to the discussions.
Practical experience from companies such as BASF, Rowasol, and Mercer Rosenthal will provide additional insights into current industrial applications and future opportunities.
In addition to presentations and workshops, the symposium will feature an exhibition area where participants can explore materials, technologies, and potential applications.
SKZ and the Future of Sustainable Plastics
SKZ provides research, testing, certification, training, and technology development services for the plastics industry.
Its activities cover important areas such as biopolymers, recycling, material characterization, circular economy, and sustainable manufacturing technologies.
Polmak Plastik supports the Turkish plastics processing industry by introducing SKZ's technical expertise and services to manufacturers seeking advanced training, testing, research, and technology development solutions.
Initiatives such as the CREATE innovation network play an important role in bridging the gap between scientific research and commercially viable industrial applications.
CREATE Symposium 2026 – Event Information
Event: 2nd CREATE Symposium
Date: November 19, 2026
Location: SKZ Kunststoff-Zentrum, Würzburg-Lengfeld, Germany
Main Focus: Industrial applications and commercialization of bio-based plastics
Organizer: CREATE Innovation Network, coordinated by SKZ
For further information about SKZ's research, testing, training, and technology development services, please contact Polmak Plastik.
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