Neste and Åbo Akademi University have signed a letter of intent on strategic cooperation. The aim of the cooperation is to improve the competitiveness of both parties while increasing Finnish chemical industry expertise, including such fields as chemical and process engineering, bioeconomy, and circular economy.

“We are truly excited about the cooperation we are entering into with Åbo Akademi University. We firmly believe that our innovative joint projects will improve the competitiveness of the Finnish chemical industry. Finnish chemical industry know-how is already world-class and I believe that together with Åbo Akademi University we get to make the most out of our strengths in a new and inspirational way,” says Lars Peter Lindfors, Neste’s senior vice president of Technology.

Innovations hold a central role in executing Neste’s strategy. The company further invests on innovations to create new breakthroughs with partners which enable creating a base for long-term growth. Partnerships and new technologies are needed, in order for Neste to reach its goal to be a global leader in renewables and circular solutions.

Neste’s extensive research and development portfolio perfected during past decades combined with Åbo Akademi University’s internationally acknowledged position in chemical and process engineering create a base on top of which it will be easier to export Finnish know-how further and bolder than before.

“Neste represents a Finnish industry success story, especially in the field of biofuels. Bioenergy, biomass refining and biofuels are also the leading areas of research at Åbo Akademi University. We have collaborated with Neste for a long time now, but this strategic cooperation model and new research portfolio will open doors to a more long-term as well as new way of doing, which will certainly benefit both parties”, says Mikko Hupa, rector of Åbo Akademi University.