CARE+ Project

The CARE+ project, initiated by Cefic, is implemented in collaboration with partners in Bulgaria, Italy and Poland. It is funded and supported by the European Commission under the framework of Intelligent Energy Europe.

Project activities

Gap analysis: The partner countries conducted surveys on energy management performance and provided a gap analysis to help to determine the current situation and needs in chemical SMEs.

Tools development: Based on the survey results and existing expertise, the project evaluated best practices and appropriate delivery mechanisms for improving energy efficiency. The results served to draft the Self Audit Guide and the Best Practice Manual.

National test phase and roll-out: The draft tools were tested with two chemical SMEs in each partner country. The “field test” enabled further improvements to match companies’ needs and expectations. The finalised tools were then promoted through a roll-out campaign in the partner countries.

Dissemination in Europe and beyond: based on the experience from the pilot countries, the project aims to expand to a broader European and international audience. The international dissemination builds on the project’s close links with Responsible Care, the global chemical industry’s voluntary initiative to continuously improve its health, safety and environmental performance.