Plastics Industry Awards 2026 Announces Polyurethane Innovation Finalists
George Nowill- 2 minutes read
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Four innovative projects have been shortlisted for the Polyurethane Innovation Award at the 2026 Plastics Industry Awards, recognising developments in materials, recycling and sustainable manufacturing across the polyurethane sector.
The finalists showcase a range of approaches to improving the environmental performance of polyurethanes, from bio-based and biodegradable materials designed to prevent persistent microplastics to technologies that enable foam recycling and the use of renewable carbon in polyurethane production.
The finalists for the Polyurethane Innovation Award are:
• Soleic® : High Performance, Bio-Based, Biodegradable Polyurethanes that prevent persistent microplastics by Algenesis Labs and Safic-Alcan (European distribution)
• Podz® : Reinventing Mattress Springs with Recyclable Foam Technology by Carpenter Co.
• Redeeming CO₂ : Sustainable Polyurethanes via Polyols from Renewable Carbon by Econic Technologies
• Making mattresses circular – depolymerizing PU foams with carbonates by University of Twente and Shell Plc
The four shortlisted projects demonstrate the breadth of innovation taking place in polyurethane technology today, addressing challenges ranging from material design and renewable feedstocks to the recyclability of products at the end of their useful life.
The Polyurethane Innovation Award is part of the 25th anniversary edition of the Plastics Industry Awards, which celebrate innovation, sustainability and manufacturing excellence across the wider polymer industry.
Winners will be announced at the black-tie awards ceremony on Friday 20 November 2026, at the InterContinental London Park Lane.
The evening will be hosted by Holly Walsh, the two-time BAFTA award-winning writer, executive producer, director and comedian.
Table bookings for the gala dinner and awards ceremony are now available via the event website. For more information visit the Plastics Industry Awards website.
Read more news about the Plastics Industry Awards here.
