UK chemical makers accelerate net-zero plan

London – The Chemical Industries Association’s member companies have come together in stating their collective ambition to halve CO2 emissions by 2034 and further reduce them by 90% by 2050, CIA announced 31 Oct. 

“This collective ambition by our member companies is another positive demonstration of the chemical industry’s desire to support the fight against climate change,” said Steve Elliott, chief executive of the London-based association

“It is a fight that cannot be won without our products and solutions,” he continued. “But we can do even more and do it quicker for the country if the [UK] government were to further increase its level of support and deliver a more business-friendly policy environment.” 

That, said Elliot, should include a green light for all UK regional cluster carbon-capture projects and a revised national energy policy that 'helps rather than hinders' the drive to sustainability among industries such as chemicals & pharmaceuticals.

A recent analysis by the UK government’s climate change committee found that around 80% of the chemical industry’s direct emission reductions will require sufficient access to hydrogen, carbon capture and storage and clean electricity. 

Complementary actions in areas such as energy-efficiency, ‘circularity’ and embracing other adaptation measures, will also be part of the collective effort needed in mitigating climate change, added CIA.