A Look Ahead: Green Materials Trends for 2030
The demand for sustainable, low-carbon materials is rising, driven by the global push toward decarbonization and the increasing focus on reducing carbon emissions.
As global decarbonization efforts intensify, the demand for sustainable, low-carbon materials grows across various industries. According to a recent study from McKinsey & Company, the whole manufacturing sector is adopting greener production practices, offering “green materials” like low-carbon metals, plastics, and glass to meet consumer demand. However, these materials typically carry a higher price—known as the “green premium”—that buyers are increasingly willing to pay.
You can also read: Looking Ahead – Future Shifts in the Plastics Industry
Economic Challenges Facing Green Materials
Although demand is rising, several economic challenges have recently impacted the green materials market. High energy costs, inflation, and declining carbon prices have increased production expenses, making green materials less affordable for some companies. Moreover, the uncertain macroeconomic outlook has caused delays in several decarbonization projects, slowing the momentum. However, recent surveys reveal that over 80% of buyers and suppliers report that green premia remain stable or have even increased.
Strong Growth Expected by 2030
Despite these challenges, the green materials market is expected to grow significantly by 2030. According to industry surveys, buyers anticipate increasing their purchases of sustainable materials like steel, aluminum, and plastics by up to 4.5 times current levels. Corporate commitments to reducing Scope 3 emissions, which are generated throughout the value chain, are driving this surge in demand. Automotive, construction, and consumer goods industries focus on meeting sustainability targets through increased use of green materials.
Buyers expect to significantly increase their purchases of green materials. Courtesy of McKinsey & Company.
More Stringent Standards on the Horizon
By 2030, stricter definitions of “green” materials will emerge, further transforming the market. Survey respondents predict that future regulations will require suppliers to account for Scope 3 emissions in their sustainability assessments. For example, many steel producers expect that CO2 emissions per ton of steel will need to fall below stricter limits by 2030 to meet new standards. These tightening requirements will challenge suppliers to adopt even more sustainable production processes.
Strategic Focus for Suppliers
To thrive in this evolving market, suppliers will need to focus on customer segments willing to pay higher green premia. Additionally, they must improve supply chain transparency, proving their sustainability claims by tracking emissions and sourcing practices. Companies that adapt to tightening regulations and secure sustainable raw materials early will have a competitive edge in the rapidly expanding green materials market.
Buyer willingness to pay premia varies across materials categories. Courtesy of McKinsey & Company.
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