Dr. Karsten Brast

Expert in Biomaterials, High-Performance Composites, and Mottainai 5.0

I've spent over 25 years transforming complex engineering and sustainability challenges into profitable business opportunities. From leading global R&D centers in the automotive industry to founding award-winning biomaterials and upcycling ventures across Europe, the USA, and Asia — I’ve lived at the intersection of science, innovation, and strategy.

I believe sustainability isn’t a moral choice — it’s a performance advantage. Through the Mottainai 5.0 framework, I help companies replace linear, fossil-based systems with circular, high-performance solutions. My work combines smart science, rigorous engineering, and business pragmatism to turn waste streams into a competitive advantage.

If your goal is measurable impact — lower emissions, higher material value, stronger market position — let’s talk about how to make that real.

Dr. Karsten Brast

Drop a Message

Community

Consulting & Retainer

Technology

Expertise & Achievements

Former CTO and Global R&D Head for NBHX Automotive, a key interiors supplier to global automotive leaders like VW, Daimler, BMW, and BYD.
Former Vice President Programs and Engineering for Continental/Faurecia.
Founder of nature2need, an advanced biomaterials brand with global distribution.
Trusted consultant to corporations and scale-ups on circular materials, upcycling, and ESG strategies.
Recipient of the Swiss Solar Impulse Label for the advanced Mottainai 5.0 sustainability model, recognizing a commitment to clean and profitable solutions.
Honored with the prestigious Chinese Government Friendship Award and the Zhejiang 1000 Talent Plan.
20+ years of co-founding and scaling businesses across Asia, Europe, and the US (China, India, Thailand, Germany, USA, Singapore).
Doctor of Engineering (Dr.-Ing.), IKV, RWTH Aachen, Germany.

About Me

My focus is on driving innovation and sustainability in the biomaterials, composites, and upcycling sector. I bring a unique blend of technical leadership and business acumen, forged over two decades of leading R&D and engineering in blue-chip companies globally. This industrial experience, combined with my deep technical background, including a Doctor of Engineering degree, provides a solid foundation for delivering actionable and innovative solutions that drive both business success and positive environmental impact.

Start the Conversation

Or Email Us at hello@nature2world.com