UNIDO is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, while emphasizing environmental sustainability in the post-globalization era.
The Austrian Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism, the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, the German Environment Agency, the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment, and UNIDO brought together over 150 participants and chemical service experts from municipalities, institutes, and companies. Organized under the “Green Chemistry Conference 2018”, the event was part of the EU program and council during Austria’s EU Presidency, also covering the "Smart and Sustainable Europe" Trio Presidency.
A total of 91 applications were received from 20 countries (54 case studies, 18 special innovations, 19 research projects). It was observed that chemical service is gaining momentum and is being implemented across various sectors globally.
The event and awards, first launched in 2010, aim to support innovative business models and inspire companies and individuals in the field of sustainability. The 4th Global Chemical Leasing Award was held in three categories: Case Studies, Special Innovation, and Research.
UNIDO Chemical Leasing Definitions:
- a) Chemical Leasing is a service-oriented business model that emphasizes value-added approaches rather than increasing the volume of chemicals sold.
- b) The producer primarily sells the performance functions of the chemical, with functional units serving as the main basis for payment.
- c) Within the chemical service business model, the responsibility of the producer and service provider is extended to cover the entire lifecycle management.
- d) Chemical Leasing is based on a win-win principle. The goal is to increase chemical efficiency, reduce chemical-related risks, and protect human health. It also improves companies’ economic and environmental performance, enabling access to new markets.
- e) The key elements of successful chemical service business models are fair benefit sharing among participating companies, high-quality standards, and mutual trust.