As a project focused on unlocking the potential of lignin-derived aromatic compounds for industrial applications, LIGNOFUN used the workshop as a platform to engage stakeholders from across the value chain and explore pathways for accelerating the market uptake of lignin-based solutions.

Vaskar Mukherjee, Coordinator of the LIGNOFUN project, presented the project’s vision, objectives, and key activities. He highlighted how LIGNOFUN is developing and scaling innovative technologies to convert lignin into high-value bio-based aromatic building blocks that can replace fossil-based raw materials in a wide range of products. Throughout the workshop, he also actively participated in discussions at the co-creation stations, exchanging perspectives with participants and gathering valuable insights for the project’s ongoing activities.

The interactive sessions were moderated by Peter Stoffels and Sarah Refai, and Tatjana Schwabe-Marković from CLIB. They guided participants through a series of collaborative discussions designed to identify the most promising opportunities and challenges for the emerging lignin value chain.

Participants explored two key questions:

• How can different lignin feedstocks and processing technologies be optimally matched with specific application areas?
• For which products can lignin-based intermediates create real added value, and what market opportunities do they offer?

The discussions demonstrated that lignin’s diversity is both a challenge and a major opportunity. Participants emphasized the need for comprehensive data and a deeper understanding of the relationships between feedstock characteristics, conversion technologies, and end-use requirements. The workshop also reinforced the importance of close collaboration between feedstock suppliers, technology developers, and downstream industries to ensure successful market implementation.

Particular attention was given to advanced depolymerisation and fractionation technologies being developed within LIGNOFUN and COUNTLESS. These innovations aim to produce tailor-made bio-based aromatic compounds with application-specific properties, creating new opportunities in sectors such as plastics, resins, coatings, and speciality chemicals.

To conclude the workshop, participants jointly developed a roadmap outlining the key stakeholders and actions required to strengthen the European lignin value chain. Across all discussions, a clear message emerged: the successful commercialisation of lignin-based solutions will depend on coordinated action across the entire ecosystem. Collaboration, targeted support for first-of-a-kind plants, and continued investment in technology scale-up will be essential to reducing risks and accelerating market adoption.

The workshop also highlighted the importance of maintaining visibility for lignin valorisation and bio-based aromatics. Projects such as LIGNOFUN, together with cluster organisations and other innovation networks, play a crucial role in demonstrating the potential of lignin-derived products, communicating success stories, and building confidence among future users and investors.

LIGNOFUN would like to thank all participants for their active engagement and valuable contributions. The insights generated during the workshop will directly support the project’s ongoing research, innovation, and stakeholder engagement activities, helping to advance a strong and competitive European lignin value chain.