Arkema, AkzoNobel, and Omya collaborate to develop low-carbon footprint paints

Paris, France – Arkema, AkzoNobel, and Omya have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to develop a range of low-carbon footprint decorative paints aimed at mass market adoption. This innovative project promises to reduce the carbon footprint of decorative paints by 30% or more, while maintaining performance equivalent to existing products .

The new formulations leverage bio-based and bio-attributed binders and additives from Arkema, opacity-boosting minerals with recycled content from Omya, and advanced formulation expertise from AkzoNobel. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to decarbonize the paint industry and meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable products.

Julie Haevermans, Chief Marketing Officer at Arkema Coating Solutions, emphasized the importance of industry collaboration in achieving these goals. “Our efforts have been driven by the common objective to make lower carbon footprint solutions the mainstream,” she said.

The collaboration also utilized advanced lab automation and AI-driven experimental design to accelerate development. This approach has resulted in commercially relevant paint formulations with significantly reduced carbon footprints, with potential for further reductions in the future.

David Williams, Chief Innovation Officer at AkzoNobel, highlighted the project’s success in maintaining performance standards such as brightness, yellowing resistance, and wet scrub resistance. “These advances are another step in paving the way for widespread adoption and external recognition, which will help shape the future of lower carbon footprint paints and coatings,” he stated.

The companies plan to continue their collaboration across the value chain and welcome additional partners to accelerate the transformation of the paint industry towards a lower carbon future.