In a world urgently shifting toward sustainable solutions, Dr. Yelena Kann stands at the forefront of innovation in polymer science and environmental stewardship. With over 28 years of industrial experience, her work spans a remarkable range of technologies—from plastics stabilization and biodegradation to the development of alternative materials and circular economy models.
Dr. Kann began her journey with a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Sussex, UK, under the mentorship of the globally renowned polymer degradation expert, Prof. N.C. Billingham. Her scientific rigor and passion for sustainable materials soon translated into a career of impact, with key roles in pioneering companies like Metabolix, EInk, Sabic, OmniGuide, and Lynn Plastics.
At Metabolix, she contributed to the development of biobased-biodegradable Poly(hydroxy alkanoate) (PHA)—a breakthrough in renewable polymers. Her tenure at EInk focused on sustainable e-paper technologies, while her later work at Sabic and other material science firms tackled next-generation materials for industrial and medical applications.
But Dr. Kann didn’t stop there. Fueled by a desire to confront the global plastic waste crisis head-on, she went on to found two startups aimed at tackling plastic pollution, recycling, and sustainability. Her ventures reflect a deep understanding of material science and an equally deep commitment to environmental transformation.
Dr. Kann has authored more than 30 technical papers and holds over 50 global patents. Her work has earned her prestigious recognitions such as winning the 2018 US National CleanTech Open, the 2019 NY 76West competition, and becoming an Activate Fellow in 2020. She’s also led multiple government and private research grants, and remains an influential voice as Vice-Chair of ASTM’s biodegradable plastics committee.
Her speaking engagements have spanned globally respected events including:
- World Materials Forum, France
- MIT Sustainable Materials Conference, USA
- IUPAC Conference, Prague
- Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE)
With expertise in polymer degradation, recycling, optical properties, and color chemistry, Dr. Kann brings a holistic perspective to the table—one grounded in science, fueled by innovation, and shaped by a commitment to global sustainability.
Meet Dr. Yelena Kann at PolyNext – Plastic Industry Conference 2025
We’re proud to feature Dr. Yelena Kann as a Speaker at PolyNext 2025, taking place on October 1–2, 2025 in Dubai. Join her and other industry visionaries as we explore the future of plastics, recycling, sustainable packaging, and materials innovation.
🔗 Learn more & register: www.polynextconf.com
📍 Location: Crowne Plaza Deira, Dubai
📆 Dates: October 1–2, 2025
#PolyNext2025 #PlasticRecycling #SustainableMaterials #CircularEconomy #GreenInnovation #WomenInSTEM #PolymerScience #PlasticAlternatives #NextBusinessMedia
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