Co-founded by Dr Lionel O'Young — a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience in process development and industrial implementation—and Professor Tao Wu, Chair Professor of Chemical Engineering, the Consortium aims to address industrial challenges, cultivate specialised talent, and drive sustainable innovation. The initiative aligns with China's carbon neutrality goals, focusing on green chemical process optimisation, advanced petrochemical materials, catalyst design, and carbon management across product lifecycles. By integrating artificial intelligence and multiscale simulation technologies, it offers tailored solutions for energy efficiency and product upgrading.

In terms of talent development, the Consortium creates a new model for joint doctoral training programme with the industry. Through real-world research opportunities and high-standard training within the Institute of Excellence for Industrial Engineers, students gain hands-on experience while building professional networks with industry experts.

Each of the six partner companies brings unique strengths. Together, they form a powerful alliance covering the full spectrum of process technology innovation.

Professor Philip Hall, Head of the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, commented: "UNNC is a young university, and now is the time for us to give back to community. By combining UNNC's technical expertise with industry data, we aim to break down barriers and become a powerful engine for green manufacturing and sustainable development."

Supported by UNNC's strong disciplinary foundation—with Engineering, Materials Science, Environment/Ecology, and Chemistry all ranked in the ESI global top 1%—the Consortium is well-positioned to drive impactful collaboration. Moving forward, it will facilitate industry-funded PhD programmes, joint meetings, and tailored consultations to ensure research directly addresses real-world industrial needs, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.