LG Chem opens Europe Innovation Center in Germany

South Korea's LG Chem Ltd., the world’s fourth-largest chemicals manufacturer, said on Sunday the opening of its Europe Innovation Center in Frankfurt, Germany.

This new research and development facility will focus on next-generation eco-friendly technologies, including battery materials, biomaterials, and plastic recycling.

The move comes as Europe implements stringent environmental regulations with mandatory reductions in plastic packaging waste starting this year and a complete ban on single-use plastic packaging for items like fruits set for 2030.

The new battery legislation is expected to increase the volume of collected used batteries by fiftyfold over the next 15 years.

LG Chem plans to collaborate with prominent European research institutions, including the Fraunhofer Institute, Jülich Research Center, and ETH Zurich to enhance its R&D capabilities in sustainable technologies.

Write to Sang Hoon Sung at uphoon@hankyung.com