In general the present invention relates to thermoplastic polyurethanes containing lignin-derived monomers, lignin model compounds or the products of their respective functionalization in their structure. More specifically, this process relates to the use of 4-hydroxylalkylphenols and their derivatives as lignin-derived monomers or lignin model compounds. These can act either as chain extenders or be part of the polyol. The thermoplastic polyurethanes can be partially or fully bio-based. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for preparing these thermoplastic polyurethanes and to their use.