The Blue Effect & Me

I joined MATERI’ACT in April 2023 as a Lead Data Scientist. With a PhD in environmental modeling and a background in food security and human health, I was excited to bring my expertise to developing AI solutions that make plastics more sustainable. My work covers bio-based and recycled materials, helping create more innovative, eco-friendly options.

One of my key projects has been collaborating with MATERI’ACT’s R&D Compounding Team to integrate AI tools into their workflows. Our goal is to launch this software to make material development more efficient, reduce waste, and cut emissions through data-driven innovation.

I’ve made it a point to involve myself in work that benefits us all, so working in the FORVIA family speaks volumes to the Group’s dedication to sustainability. I was immediately struck by FORVIA’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact, even down to details like using secondhand office furniture, composting our waste, and using energy efficiency measures in the office. 

Working for a company focused on transforming such a resource-heavy industry keeps me engaged every day. Knowing that my efforts lead to real, measurable progress drives me to keep pushing forward.

I’ve been with FORVIA for nine years, starting as a sales and program manager in Japan, where I focused on seamless product development for our customers. Now, based in Lyon, France, I lead European sales as Global Sales Manager at MATERI’ACT. My role centers on working with clients like Renault, Stellantis, and Volvo to bring sustainable materials into automotive design from the ground up. By embedding eco-friendly options early in development, we aim to cut CO₂ emissions and promote a circular economy in vehicle production.

One of the projects I’m most proud to have worked on is the introduction of NAFILean-R, a bio-composite material used in Renault’s latest EV models, including the Renault 5 E-Tech. Developed by MATERI’ACT in partnership with Veolia and APM* this material blends 20 percent natural hemp fibers with fully recycled polypropylene sourced from post-consumer waste. For the first time, it is being used across an entire structural component, specifically the instrument panel.

This material brings significant benefits by reducing CO₂ emissions by 73 percent and cutting the weight of the part by 20 percent. Even with these sustainability gains, it meets the strict standards for strength, crash safety, and air quality while performing as effectively as traditional materials. This project reflects how careful design and innovative materials can push sustainability forward in automotive manufacturing.

My work at MATERI’ACT directly supports FORVIA’s sustainability goals while helping our customers meet their targets, contributing to a greener future for everyone. This is what the Blue Effect is all about—small actions and individual efforts coming together to drive significant, lasting change. Knowing I’m part of this ripple effect motivates me to push for meaningful progress every day.

* Joint Venture INTERVAL, an agricultural cooperative producing hemp and its co-products such as fibers.