ECRN is pleased to welcome Liguria and Ústí, through its Innovation Centre, in its network of regions. Now, ECRN has reached 12 member regions in 7 different countries. Here’s a brief presentation of the two regions:

• Liguria, in Italy, covers approximately 5,400 square kilometers and is home to around 1.5 million people. In recent years, the chemical industry has become one of Liguria’s key industrial sectors. The region’s chemical companies specialize in producing synthetic materials, paints, coatings, and pharmaceuticals. Liguria benefits from its strategic location near major ports, including Genoa, which facilitates international trade and export. The chemical sector contributes significantly to regional industrial output, playing a crucial role in Italy’s broader manufacturing base. Italy’s chemical industry as a whole accounts for around 9% of Europe’s chemical sales, with Liguria being a notable contributor​. Click here for the official website.
• Ústí nad Labem, located in the Czech Republic, has around 800,000 residents and covers a similar land area to Liguria. Historically centered around coal mining, the region has evolved to be a critical hub for the Czech chemical industry. The chemical production in Ústí is mainly focused on fertilizers, petrochemical products, and industrial chemicals.
  The regions joins ECRN through its Innovation Center. Founded in 2015 by key local institutions, it aims to transform the region into an attractive place for citizens, students, and entrepreneurs. It fosters a functional innovation ecosystem by collaborating with local partners to develop strategic priorities for business and knowledge economy growth. The Center supports local businesses in achieving their ambitions, connects stakeholders in business, research, and education, and enhances the region’s appeal to high-value investors. Please find region’s website here and the Innovation Center website here.