Lars Börger will join nova-Institute as its new co-CEO on March 1, 2025. He will work alongside Michael Carus, the current CEO, to promote sustainability in the chemical and materials sectors.
Börger’s strong background in renewable carbon and defossilisation makes him a valuable addition to the institute’s leadership. Nova-Institute has been focused on transitioning away from fossil resources for 30 years. The organization has provided research and consulting services to companies, NGOs, and policymakers.
Through these efforts, nova-Institute has produced a wealth of studies and reports on renewable carbon and defossilisation. Despite the availability of alternatives based on biomass, CO2 use, and recycling, significant challenges remain in the chemical sector. Key issues include creating a supportive policy framework and understanding the role of brand owners in demanding sustainable solutions.
Börger holds a PhD in Chemistry and an Executive Master in General Management. He spent nearly 20 years at BASF as Head of Global Marketing Biopolymers. Following that, he served as Vice President of Renewable Polymers & Chemicals at Neste for seven years.
His experience includes representing Neste during the founding of the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI) and serving on the board of European Bioplastics.
Börger commented, “nova-Institute is a leading think tank for the circular economy. Accelerating transformation in the chemical industry is now more important than ever.”
Alongside COO Linda Engel, Börger and Carus will lead nova-Institute, offering research and consultancy in Technology & Markets, Sustainability, Economy & Policy, and Communications.
