Start your car or flip on a light switch, and everyone thinks “energy.” It’s equally important to U.S. chemical manufacturing. From the industry’s earliest days, chemistry companies have used energy for heat and power and – unique among manufacturers – as a raw material. Hence the name “petrochemicals.”
This week, the American Chemistry Council released a new video explaining why and how energy is fundamental to the chemistry industry. The video shows where energy goes, how we’re using it to boost investment in the United States, and how that activity generates broader economic benefits. The video also “connects the dots” to key societal goals, from better health and safety to a stronger economy and a more sustainable future.
More than 96 percent of manufactured goods are touched by chemistry, in industries as varied as building and construction, automotive, food production and packaging, medicines, electronics, and clothing. In so many ways, chemistry is the foundation for the manufacturing supply chain. The industry produced 10 percent of U.S. goods exports last year.
ACC member companies are playing a critical role in the global battle against COVID-19 by creating ingredients for necessary products such as hand sanitizers, disinfectants, face masks, and other personal protective equipment (PPE). It all starts with energy.
The new video highlights the chemistry industry’s commitment to sustainability and its achievements in improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions under Responsible Care®. Another important part of the story is how chemistry is being used to create climate solutions. Energy-efficient materials and renewable energy wouldn’t exist without chemistry.
The film closes with a summary of government policies that support chemistry’s ability to vitalize our economy, create jobs, and invent and provide innovations that address society’s most pressing challenges.
Watch the video here.