Focused on solving real-world industrial challenges, especially those related to decarbonisation, circularity, and digital transformation.
Built on partnerships between industry, academia, and government to accelerate progress, share risk, and scale impact.
Grounded in practical R&D and demonstration, with clear pathways to commercial adoption and policy influence.
Addressing not just technologies, but the wider systems, supply chains, infrastructure, skills, and regulation, that enable lasting change.
Whether it’s glass, metals, composites, or other advanced materials, our innovation approach is about unlocking value across the full lifecycle; from raw material sourcing to end-of-life reuse.
We support our members by designing and delivering projects that enable innovation and transformation. Our aim is to ensure glass and other foundation materials continue to play a vital role in a sustainable future.
We’re pioneering technologies that reduce emissions and improve efficiency, including:
Full electrification of melting processes
Hybrid furnace development
Carbon capture integration
Industrial symbiosis and cogeneration models
Digital tools are reshaping how glass is designed, produced, and managed. Our focus includes:
Digital twins and advanced modelling
Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DRS)
Workforce training and digital skills development
Building a circular and secure supply chain is essential for sustainability and competitiveness. We’re advancing:
Increased recycled glass content and use of industrial by-products
Design for reuse and recycling
Delamination technologies
Development of new resilient raw materials and glass grades
Innovation in materials unlocks new markets and applications. Our research spans:
Functional and performance-enhancing coatings
Embedded functionality in glass
High-performance and specialist glass applications
Glass fibre composites for lightweight and durable solutions
Glass Futures operates as a membership organisation, offering a unique platform for collaborative innovation. Our members span the entire glass ecosystem, from global manufacturers and recyclers to technology providers, universities, and government bodies.
Glass Futures operates as a membership organisation, offering a unique platform for collaborative innovation. Our members span the entire glass ecosystem, from global manufacturers and recyclers to technology providers, universities, and government bodies.
We’re proud to collaborate with visionary partners who help drive our mission forward. Explore the incredible network of funders and strategic partnerships powering our innovation:
