Jessika Roswall, EU Commissioner for Environment, Resilient Water Supply, and Competitive Circular Economy, visited the Kurpfalz region on Monday, October 6, 2025, to explore pioneering technologies in wastewater treatment, green fuels, and sustainable lubricants derived from biomass.
During her visit, Commissioner Roswall visited the power-to-methanol demonstration plant at Mannheim wastewater treatment plant, where the UP-TO-ME technology has been implemented. In this demonstration plant, biogas and hydrogen are used to produce e-methanol, primarily for the shipping industry.
She also explored the world’s first industrial-scale quaternary wastewater treatment system using powdered activated carbon, as well as SEW Eurodrive’s facilities, where sustainable lubricants are developed and produced.
These visits highlighted how regional innovation in cities like Mannheim is at the forefront of Europe’s drive toward environmental sustainability. With Baden-Württemberg’s strong commitment to the bioeconomy, the region plays a vital role in helping Mannheim achieve its ambitious target of CO₂ neutrality by 2030.
Commissioner Roswall shared: “There is a real opportunity to expand the circular bioeconomy across Europe. It is a great opportunity to visit cutting-edge companies in Baden-Württemberg today that show how innovation can turn traditional industries into pioneers of the circular economy and clean growth. One thing is clear: the bioeconomy offers untapped market potential, and Europe must take a leading role in stimulating its growth.” (EC press release)
