This project aims to produce both new and existing aromatics in a new, fully integrated 'lignin first' biorefinery. The underlying technology was developed at KU Leuven and converts the entire lignocellulosic biomass into a soluble phenolic fraction and a solid pulp rich in carbohydrates. For both fractions, fermentative and chemical synthesis routes will be investigated in the project to convert them to aromatic molecules in an atom efficient way.