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Interview: “Progress in the bio-based coatings market often comes in small steps”
The bio-based coatings market is evolving rapidly, but challenges such as performance expectations, pricing, and misconceptions about raw materials still exist. Karin van der Helm, Lead Applications Scientist at Cargill Bioindustrial, provides insights into current market trends, regulatory impacts, and innovation strategies. She also highlights why public education and transparent communication are key to long-term success in the industry.
How would you describe the current market for bio-based coatings?
Karin van der Helm: The market for bio-based coatings varies significantly across different regions. Europe is currently leading the way in the bio-based industry, benefiting from a combination of regulatory support, consumer awareness, and a strong commitment to sustainability. With the growth of the electronics market, including electric vehicles, interest in bio-based coatings for high-performance applications is increasing. In the United States, this interest is driven by advanced technological capabilities. At Cargill, with our global presence in the coatings market, we closely monitor the needs of customers in different regions. That’s why we are developing a complete range of 100% bio-based dimer-based polyester polyols to meet market demands.
Do you see any barriers to progress in the bio-based coatings market?
Van der Helm: Performance is always the top priority when developing new coatings, including those using bio-based or recycled ingredients. However, price can be a significant barrier. The mineral oil industry has had decades to optimize and scale up its processes, making it difficult for new bio-based raw material producers to compete. This creates a chicken-and-egg situation where companies may cease production before gaining a foothold in the market. The availability of bio-based raw materials can also be an obstacle, especially when companies require a second supplier for security. Another challenge is the misconception that bio-based raw materials for coatings compete with food resources. This perception can negatively influence public opinion. That’s why public education and transparent communication about the sources and benefits of bio-based materials are essential to overcoming this barrier.
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What could help accelerate progress?
Van der Helm: After the pandemic, both consumers and companies have become more aware of the importance of safer and healthier products. Various initiatives, such as industry agreements and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, are encouraging companies to enhance their ESG strategies. However, regulations play a crucial role in accelerating the growth of the bio-based products industry. Key regulatory frameworks shaping this journey include REACH (EU), TSCA (USA), EPA (USA), China’s Air Pollution Control Law, and the Bureau of Indian Standards. At the same time, research and development are essential to unlocking the unique properties of bio-based coatings, enabling them to justify a higher price through enhanced performance. Innovations in bio-based coatings can lead to products with superior characteristics, including better durability and resistance.
Where do you see opportunities for bio-based coatings?
Van der Helm: There are significant opportunities in high-performance markets that can tolerate higher prices. This includes coatings that are:
- Chemical-resistant
- Hard yet impact-resistant
- UV-resistant
- Capable of withstanding extreme temperatures
Beyond this, we must explore how bio-based products can be combined with other sustainable solutions to enhance their benefits. That’s why one of our innovation projects focuses on combining recycled raw materials with bio-based ingredients to create a novel polyester polyol for use in CASE applications (coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers).
Event tip: bio-based coatings
Experience the future of the coatings industry at the EC Conference ‘Bio-based Coatings 2025’! This event on 6 and 7 May 2025 in Cologne is the ideal platform to benefit from expert knowledge and high-level contacts and to find out first-hand about the latest innovations in the field of bio-based coatings and sustainability. Discover the latest innovations in bio-based raw materials, optimised formulation strategies and scalable solutions for sustainable coating systems. Learn how regulatory trends, cost efficiency and sustainability are shaping the market and driving progress.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Van der Helm: It’s important to be cautious about greenwashing. Companies must balance emotions and data when communicating with end users and be transparent about their goals and claims. Greenwashing can undermine consumer trust and damage the credibility of genuinely sustainable products. Transparency and honesty are crucial for building and maintaining trust in the industry. Progress in the bio-based coatings market often comes in small steps, but these incremental advancements are essential for long-term success. By focusing on continuous improvement and transparent communication, the industry can build a more sustainable future.
