Brenntag to help EMEA firms replace harmful chemicals

The chemical giant is investing in high-tech lab to develop drop-in replacements for toxic solvents used across EMEA industries, Dr Annika Herbst and Małgorzata Maranska tell OGN

- ABDULAZIZ KHATTAK

BRENNTAG, a world leading chemical distributor, is stepping up efforts to help companies across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) transition away from hazardous substances.

With stricter safety rules, sustainability reporting requirements, and increasing customer demand for greener alternatives, the company is now offering specialised support to identify and develop safer chemical solutions.

The initiative will be spearheaded by Brenntag's Energy Service expert team in Jankowice, Poland, where chemists and product developers will focus on formulating alternatives to high-risk substances.

The lab is equipped for advanced analytics, functional testing, and creating complex mixtures-key to replacing harmful ingredients without compromising performance.

Under the EU's REACH regulation, certain chemicals are classified as substances of very high concern (SVHC) due to their potential dangers to human health and the environment.

In an exclusive interview with OGN energy magazine, Dr Annika Herbst, Technical Business Development Manager Sustainable Products, Business Development and Strategy Brenntag Essentials EMEA; and Dr Małgorzata Maranska, Senior Manager of R&D and Laboratory Department, Focus Industries Brenntag Essentials EMEA, shed light on how Brenntag is prioritising alternatives wherever feasible, particularly for solvents and other high-risk formulations.