Congress continues its blockbuster week of climate hearings this St. Patrick’s Day when the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure explores private sector solutions to “green” our nation’s surface transportation sector.
It’s no secret that America’s aging infrastructure – including highways and roads, bridges, and ports – is in urgent need of repair. The chemistry industry has a strong interest in this issue as a major user of the transportation network and a provider of solutions that can help modernize and enhance the sustainability of these systems.
ACC member companies create advanced materials – lighter, stronger, more resilient – that help save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions during the building and use of surface transportation networks and other infrastructure. Ultimately, this means a better return on investment for the American taxpayer.
Unfortunately, regulatory constraints increase the total cost of infrastructure projects and block the use of new, innovative technologies. ACC supports policies that promote open competition, which would allow engineers to select the best materials for their project. Congress should approve legislation that ensures all federally funded infrastructure projects require an open, competitive bidding process for all materials.
Expanding the capacity of highways and ports is important, too. The chemistry industry provides inputs for solutions and technologies that help save energy and reduce emissions across our economy. When chemistry products can be readily transported to our first-line and downstream customers – solar panel makers, wind power blade developers, vehicle manufacturers, builders, and appliance and lighting providers – it helps ensure a robust supply of climate solutions for our nation and world.
Numerous industries, including agriculture, communications, defense, energy, health and medicine, technology and transportation rely on chemical products and technologies every day. A strong transportation network is critical to keeping the business of chemistry and our economy moving.