Data Visualization and Content Design
The Carbon Managers Report
Project overview
We supported Cefic in designing The Carbon Managers report, developed to present the findings of the newly introduced iC2050 model — a comprehensive tool created in collaboration with Deloitte to explore viable pathways for the European chemical sector to become climate-neutral and circular by 2050. The report translates a complex mix of scenario modelling, technological trajectories, and resource analyses into an accessible and visually cohesive publication. Our role involved layout design, infographics, and visual storytelling, helping to clearly communicate the model’s logic, assumptions, and outcomes, while staying aligned with Cefic’s branding and communication goals.
In a bid to address the urgent need for climate action, the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) embarked on an ambitious project to model possible pathways for the EU chemical sector’s transition towards climate neutrality by 2050 Named "The Carbon Managers," this report required a sophisticated approach to content design and data visualization to effectively communicate complex information to a diverse stakeholder base.
Cefic (The European Chemical Industry Council) is the voice of the chemical industry in Europe, representing companies of all sizes that collectively provide 1.2 million jobs and contribute to around 13% of global chemical production.
Dedicated to fostering a thriving, sustainable, and innovative sector, Cefic supports its members with regulatory expertise, scientific insights, and strategic advocacy. Its mission is to advance knowledge, shape effective policy, and create collective impact — helping the industry meet future challenges while promoting safe, resource-efficient solutions for society.
Dedicated to fostering a thriving, sustainable, and innovative sector, Cefic supports its members with regulatory expertise, scientific insights, and strategic advocacy. Its mission is to advance knowledge, shape effective policy, and create collective impact — helping the industry meet future challenges while promoting safe, resource-efficient solutions for society.
Challenges
Complexity of Data
The report included detailed projections and scenarios involving numerous variables such as technology deployment, policy impacts, and economic forecasts.
The report included detailed projections and scenarios involving numerous variables such as technology deployment, policy impacts, and economic forecasts.
Stakeholder Engagement
The information needed to be accessible not only to industry experts but also to policymakers, academics, and the public.
The information needed to be accessible not only to industry experts but also to policymakers, academics, and the public.
Our Approach:
Сomprehensive work
Our team employed a holistic design strategy that balanced aesthetic appeal with functional clarity.
Our team employed a holistic design strategy that balanced aesthetic appeal with functional clarity.
Production coordination & print
We managed the printing process in Brussels through a trusted local partner, ensuring high-quality production and timely delivery to Cefic’s office.
We managed the printing process in Brussels through a trusted local partner, ensuring high-quality production and timely delivery to Cefic’s office.
Mid July–End November 2024
6
1 PM
1 team lead and layout designer
4 graphic designers
1 team lead and layout designer
4 graphic designers
10 options
Cover of the report
of text updates and layout design adjustments
6 rounds
of cover design
2 rounds
of layout style suggestions
2 rounds
Complex visuals
15
Team of
148
Graphs
176
Pages layout
professionals
We introduced:
Custom Data Visualizations
Each chart and graph was custom-designed to ensure that it communicated the specific data clearly and effectively.
Navigational Clarity
We implemented a color-coded system and structured the layout to guide readers through the report seamlessly.
Cover designs
We created various beautiful covers for the report to encapsulate the essence and importance of its content. Each design was crafted to reflect different aspects of the chemical sector's transition towards sustainability. Ultimately, the chosen cover was selected for its simplicity and ability to convey the report's core message effectively, making complex information approachable and engaging.
Event Highlight
The launch of 'The Carbon Managers' report at the Residence Palace on
December 9th, 2024, was a milestone event. It celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to sustainable practices in the chemical industry. The event featured key speeches from industry leaders and stakeholders, setting a profound stage for future discussions on achieving climate neutrality.
December 9th, 2024, was a milestone event. It celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to sustainable practices in the chemical industry. The event featured key speeches from industry leaders and stakeholders, setting a profound stage for future discussions on achieving climate neutrality.
Outcomes
The design enhancements led to an increased engagement with the report, making it a pivotal reference in discussions about the EU's climate policy. Feedback from stakeholders praised the clarity and professionalism of the presentation, which not only conveyed the data but also highlighted the potential impacts of various policy decisions.
Reflection
This project stands as a testament to the power of design in transforming complex information into clear, actionable knowledge. It underscores our commitment to supporting sustainability through intelligent design and reinforces our capability to handle complex, impactful projects in the environmental sector.
