A major collaboration between Durham University, Newcastle University and Procter & Gamble (P&G) has resulted in the development of a new framework to support industrial decarbonisation in the consumer goods sector.
The 18-month partnership has produced a robust tool that enables chemical manufacturers to assess and compare existing and emerging technologies based on environmental impact, economic viability, and alignment with policy. The framework integrates lifecycle assessment (LCA), technoeconomic analysis (TEA), and regulatory considerations to help businesses make informed decisions about low-carbon manufacturing routes.
This work addresses a growing need to decarbonise chemical production, a critical step in developing more sustainable products for everyday use. The research underscores the importance of integrating low-cost green electricity and green hydrogen into future manufacturing systems.
Professor Nalan Gulpinar from the Business School, who led the research team, said:
“This framework empowers stakeholders to evaluate low-carbon options and make strategic decisions about which technologies to scale. The collaboration also supports the development of sustainable products for the global market.”
The project was delivered through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), co-funded by UKRI through Innovate UK and P&G. It reflects the potential of academia and industry working together to solve complex global challenges.
Initial findings are now published in ACS Sustainable Resource Management, with further publications planned. The research is already influencing innovation across the chemical manufacturing sector.
Professor Elizabeth Gibson from Newcastle University added:
“Making sustainable chemicals profitable will be key to growing manufacturing while achieving industrial decarbonisation. This work shows how that ambition can be realised.
Ian Blakemore, Knowledge Transfer Adviser at Innovate UK Business Connect, praised the team’s impact:
“Improving supply chain knowledge is vital in today’s world. This project delivered meaningful insight in a short timeframe, proving how effective KTPs can be in supporting sustainable change.”
This partnership demonstrates how academic expertise, when combined with industry insight, can accelerate progress toward net zero and shape the future of sustainable manufacturing.
Photograph left to right: Dr. Phil Souter OBE (P&G); Dr. Ariane Sbrice (Durham University); Dr. Linsey Fuller (P&G); Prof. Nalan Gulpinar – on screen (Durham University); Prof. Elizabeth Gibson (Newcastle University); Ian Blakemore (Innovate UK Business Connect); Dr. Bernadette Robertson (Durham University).
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