"BASF believes that the chemical industry and its innovations can lead the way in circular economy thinking and action," said Peter Eckes, President, Bioscience Research and Regional Research Representative North America, BASF. "Yet, solving the challenges for a sustainable and circular economy requires innovation across the value chain to provide benefits to customers and suppliers, and in many cases may require completely new business models and partners. By teaming up with Greentown Labs and Stanley Black & Decker we have already initiated a collaborative environment and look forward to working with startups to explore disruptive ideas in plastics, battery materials and digital tools."