As the world charges ahead towards net zero, FENC is countering the effects of climate change with visionary technologies. FENC’s TOPGREEN® AirTek PU, the world’s first NIPU derived from carbon dioxide (CO₂), has revolutionized the application of carbon capture and reutilization (CCU). TOPGREEN® AirTek PU is a departure from the conventional polyurethane (PU) manufacturing, which relies heavily on highly toxic raw materials, such as phosgene and isocyanate. The technology converts CO₂ captured from industrial plants into a raw material for high‐performance elastomeric materials, achieving sustainability through carbon reduction and fixation at the source and low-impact production.

The core motivation behind the development of TOPGREEN® AirTek PU is the drive to maximize the value of resources and minimize the burden on the environment. The manufacturing process, which is free of toxins and solvents, is much safer and less risky for FENC employees and the environment. While reducing carbon emissions by up to 58% compared with traditional thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), this innovation retains outstanding elasticity, durability and performance. Its versatile applications include footwear, elastic fibers, waterproof and breathable membranes and synthetic leather, while the only by-product, MEG, can be looped back to polyester production. Balancing high performance and low carbon footprints, this groundbreaking material is a significant contribution to sustainable living.

Despite multiple challenges, such as material purification, process integration and commercialization, FENC prevailed, paving the way for the production of TOPGREEN® AirTek PU by coupling its R&D capabilities with manufacturing advantages. Being thermoplastic and recyclable, this circular material is the embodiment of the circular economy. 

Twenty-two international patent applications have been filed for this breakthrough. FENC also received multiple accolades for this innovation in 2025, including the Second Prize of the “Best CO₂ Utilisation 2025” Innovation Award, making the Company the first Asian enterprise to win since the award’s inception. The Ministry of Environment also recognized FENC with the Green Chemistry Application and Innovation Award as well as the Gold Award for the Source Management category of Circular Economy Excellence Awards.