The supply-chain inflation threat to petrochemicals demand

JOHN RICHARDSON AND FERGUS JENSEN | May 9, 2021 | 125 views

Petrochemicals themselves remain in short supply. This is partly because of reduced feedstock from refineries, a consequence of the pandemic-related collapse in transportation fuels demand.Global petrochemical supply is still edging back to something like normal following the US winter storms in February, during which most US capacity was shut down.

A point of discussion is whether containers will become available in the right places at the right prices to relieve tightness in the European polyethylene (PE) market, once US supply has normalised. The container issue is making it difficult to move PE and polypropylene (PP) cargoes from Asia to Europe.Market intelligence from the US-based ICIS CDI team indicates that enough container freight space will be available to resume significant shipments of US PE to Europe, albeit at high prices. It will be several more weeks before domestic pipelines have been refilled, enabling US producers to refocus on exports, added CDI.

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United Therapeutics Corporation

United Therapeutics Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of unique products to address the unmet medical needs of patients with chronic and life-threatening conditions. We currently have five approved products on the market, and a long-term mission of providing an unlimited supply of transplantable organs for those who need them! Our employees can be found collaborating across the United States, Europe and Asia. As a group, we are relentless in our pursuit of “medicines for life” and continue to research and develop treatments for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, pediatric cancers, and other orphan diseases.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT

Transporting biological and chemical materials - what you need to know

Article | July 8, 2022

The landscape of biological and chemical logistics has changed rapidly - as have the regulatory frameworks around it. What has not necessarily kept pace is the end-user understanding of the nature of these logistical processes, their opportunities and their constraints. Twenty years ago, the transmission of biological and chemical materials was limited to a small range of organisations: usually national and international research companies, hospitals, major university departments, police and military departments with forensic responsibilities.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT

Setting record straight on testing harm in chemicals

Article | June 29, 2021

The modern world is built on chemicals, be it the medicines we use, or cleaning fluids, crop protection products, or the raw materials for everything from laptops and mobile phones to clothes and furniture. Across all, we have created an entire modern society with chemicals, and, as a result, constantly stretched the size of the world population we can feed, clothe and shelter. Yet, balancing all the gains from the modern chemistry around us against any negative environmental and human impact has been a rising concern, making for ever greater focus on testing and on risk assessment.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT

Why chemical characterization is the best way to assess patient risk

Article | July 22, 2021

Everyone is very familiar with the phrase when buying a house: All that really matters are three things - location, location, and location. This same principle applies to extractables and leachables chemistry analysis – the three things that truly matter are identification, identification, and identification. The greatest growth in the past ten years in demonstrating the safety of medical devices and container closure systems for drugs has been using analytical chemistry to determine what chemicals can leach from the device and what the patient is exposed to during its intended use.

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How Chemical Companies Benefit from the Experience Economy

Article | February 10, 2020

To feel or experience from a business engagement started with customer experience mainly in the consumer products business. Today it has extended to even knowledge industries like the chemical industry where experiencing or feeling can be leveraged to include all stake holders from customers primarily to employees to supply chain people & suppliers and all else. With digital technologies this has become easier than before. The benefits from promoting the ‘feel’ or ‘experience’ emotion could be multifarious for the chemical industry as described in this article.

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Spotlight

United Therapeutics Corporation

United Therapeutics Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of unique products to address the unmet medical needs of patients with chronic and life-threatening conditions. We currently have five approved products on the market, and a long-term mission of providing an unlimited supply of transplantable organs for those who need them! Our employees can be found collaborating across the United States, Europe and Asia. As a group, we are relentless in our pursuit of “medicines for life” and continue to research and develop treatments for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, pediatric cancers, and other orphan diseases.

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NOVA Chemicals sets bold ESG aspirations to lead the plastics circular economy

Globenewswire | March 23, 2023

NOVA Chemicals Corporation announced sector-leading ESG ambitions to drive the circular economy for plastics, in line with its vision to become the leading sustainable polyethylene producer in North America. By 2030, the company aims to Set new industry standards for driving the transition to the plastics circular economy and solidifying the market for recycled polyethylene, with 30 per cent of its polyethylene sales[i] from recycled contet; Be at the forefront of decarbonization by reducing its Scope 1 and 2 absoute CO2 emissions by 30 per cent[ii]; and Become a Top 30 company in Canada. Outlined in NOVA 2030: Our Roadmap to Sustainability Leadership, NOVA Chemicals has also shared its aspiration to reach net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2050. “NOVA’s Roadmap to Sustainability Leadership details a strong plan forward for the company to become the leader in sustainable polyethylene production while building on our commitments to developing innovative solutions for our customers, enabling the circular economy, and being a responsible steward of our environment,” stated Danny Dweik, CEO. “Plastic products play an essential role in our daily lives. With our renewed purpose of reshaping plastics for a better, more sustainable world, we have developed a clear pathway to become a catalyst for a low carbon, zero-plastic-waste future.” To achieve these aspirations, NOVA Chemicals anticipates investing between USD$2-4 billion by 2030 to expand its sustainable product offerings, decarbonize assets, and build a state-of-the-art mechanical recycling business while exploring new advanced recycling technologies to create high-quality, high-performance recyclable and low carbon plastics. Building on its proprietary, Advanced SCLAIRTECHTM technology, NOVA Chemicals will explore expanding its product portfolio to include the development of innovative, advanced materials. These new product offerings, which will include the company’s first ASTUTE™ polyolefin plastomers line, will better serve existing customers and provide more options for sustainability-focused end markets such as electric vehicles and renewables. NOVA Chemicals has already begun growing its portfolio of recycled and recyclable polyethylene resins through its recently announced launch of SYNDIGO™ recycled polyethylene, a new portfolio of products made from circular polymers to encourage both waste and emissions reductions. The company’s 2030 aspirations are shorter-term objectives that will help NOVA Chemicals reach its ultimate goal of achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 absolute CO2 emissions by 2050. NOVA Chemicals has developed a technical solutions-focused roadmap for decarbonizing its asset base by improving energy efficiencies, electrifying and acquiring renewable power, and exploring clean hydrogen as a low carbon fuel source and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage. The company will also continue to pursue new technologies to abate and eliminate emissions from its production processes, such as the development of its proprietary Low Emissions Ethylene Process technology. The company has also announced a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Shell Energy for renewable power, marking the first of many opportunities to increase low carbon, renewable energy in its power portfolio. Today’s announcement builds upon NOVA Chemicals’ long-standing commitment to developing innovative solutions for its customers while enabling the circular economy and preparing for and responding to a changing world. NOVA’s approach to managing its material ESG topics including Responsible Care® and its commitment to the environment, health, and safety, can be found in its annual ESG report. About NOVA Chemicals Corporation NOVA Chemicals aspires to be the leading sustainable polyethylene producer in North America. Our driving purpose is to reshape plastics for a better, more sustainable world by delivering innovative solutions that help make everyday life healthier and safer and acting as a catalyst for a low carbon, zero-plastic-waste future. NOVA Chemicals’ innovative and quality product offerings, value chain collaboration, and unique customer experience is what sets us apart; our customers use our products to create easy-to-recycle and recycled content films, packaging, and products.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT, PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES

M. Holland Company Partners with Lavergne to Distribute PCR Resins, Enabling Material and Price Stability for Customers in North America

M. HOLLAND | March 17, 2023

M. Holland Company, a leading international distributor of thermoplastic resins and ancillary materials, today announced a new partnership with Lavergne, a global manufacturer specializing in the formulation of customized compounded engineered resins, to distribute post-consumer recycled (PCR) resins. This partnership will allow M. Holland’s clients to access Lavergne’s certified PCR resins with increased supply chain security and pricing stability. “Sustainability is a primary focus for the plastics industry, and the demand for PCR resins has accelerated in recent years,” said Samantha Stone, Global Sourcing Leader, Sustainability, at M. Holland. “Lavergne produces superior, renewed thermoplastic resins that we’re proud to offer our customers. Our partnership with Lavergne will help meet the demand for PCR resins for our clients in North America, where there is currently no viable solution. M. Holland’s customers should also benefit from more stable pricing because Lavergne’s portfolio is 100% recycled plastics and does not depend on shifting petroleum prices.” PCR resins are a growing product segment that complements traditional petroleum-based resins. There is burgeoning demand for PCR resins to meet the needs of brand owners and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), many of whom have set aggressive sustainability goals. Demand is growing across several durable goods segments, including automotive, consumer electronics, home appliances, and office furniture and supplies. M. Holland’s customers can be confident in the quality of resins produced by Lavergne, which has 35 years of experience in the plastics industry. “With a shared vision for sustainability, establishing a partnership with M. Holland was an easy decision,” said Benoit Bessette, Vice President, Strategy and Planning, at Lavergne. “We look forward to working with M. Holland and educating the market on the necessary transition to PCR resins by supplying trusted and cost-effective, sustainable materials, while drastically reducing their carbon footprint.” Lavergne is an industry leader in the advancement of engineered thermoplastics focusing on designing, developing and manufacturing high-value sustainable resins using 100% PCR plastics. It has manufacturing sites in Montreal, Belgium, Vietnam and Haiti, providing supply chain security, high-quality certified materials and stable pricing for M. Holland’s customers. ABOUT M. HOLLAND M. Holland is a leading international distributor of thermoplastic resins, providing suppliers with the most strategic channels to market, offering clients innovative sourcing and supply chain solutions, delivering materials that empower sustainable innovation, and helping people lead rewarding careers. Since 1950, a deep commitment to personal relationships and innovation has formed the core of the company’s heritage, culture and vision. Headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, M. Holland has over $1.5 billion in annual sales, partners with more than 4,000 customers annually, and serves over 70 countries across North America, LATAM, EMEA and Asia. M. Holland has offices located in the U.S., Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Netherlands.

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Purecycle Mitsui Sign Heads of Agreement

PureCycle Technologies | March 21, 2023

PureCycle Technologies and Mitsui & Co. Ltd. announced a signed heads of agreement (HOA) to develop and operate a polypropylene (PP) recycling plant in Japan. Mitsui is a global trading and investment company with a diversified business portfolio based in Tokyo. In September of 2021, the two sides announced a signed memorandum of understanding. The two sides are targeting completion of a plant in 2026. The first plant is designed to transform PP waste into an ultra-pure recycled resin and expected to have an annual capacity of 59,000 metric tons. PureCycle CEO Dustin Olson said, "We need strong global partners like Mitsui to solve the global plastic waste crisis. This HOA is a major step forward in the process of bringing a true circular solution to Japan for polypropylene plastic waste. The final options for site locations are located between major population and industrial centers, so we can optimize supply chain activities for both feed and product. We believe this site will become a strategic sustainable supply location for critical Japanese industries like automotive, electronics, and consumer product companies." PureCycle uses a patented technology that can remove virtually all contaminants, colors and odors from polypropylene plastic waste and transform it into an ultra-pure plastic resin that can be used multiple times. Chief Operating Officer of the Performance Materials Business Unit at Mitsui Hiroshi Kakiuchi commented, "Mitsui has identified 'sustainability management and the evolution of ESG' as key areas of its Corporate Strategy. Through this new joint project with PureCycle, Mitsui aims to contribute to the overall reduction of plastic waste and the establishment of a circular economy in Japan. By securing plastic waste as the raw material, manufacturing recycled polypropylene resin, and expanding the applications of the material for consumer goods, food containers and automobile interiors, Mitsui aims to make a significant contribution to the creation of the more sustainable society." This is the latest example of PureCycle's global-growth strategy. Earlier this year, the company announced the site of its first polypropylene recycling facility in Europe at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges' Next Gen District in Belgium. PureCycle's first PP recycling plant in Asia is planned to open in 2025 in South Korea. About PureCycle Technologies PureCycle Technologies LLC., a subsidiary of PureCycle Technologies, Inc., holds a global license for the only patented solvent-driven purification recycling technology, developed by The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G), that is designed to transforms polypropylene plastic waste (designated as No. 5 plastic) into a continuously renewable resource. The unique purification process removes color, odor, and other impurities from No. 5 plastic waste resulting in an ultra-pure recycled (UPR) plastic that can be recycled and reused multiple times, changing our relationship with plastic.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT, MARKET OUTLOOK

NOVA Chemicals sets bold ESG aspirations to lead the plastics circular economy

Globenewswire | March 23, 2023

NOVA Chemicals Corporation announced sector-leading ESG ambitions to drive the circular economy for plastics, in line with its vision to become the leading sustainable polyethylene producer in North America. By 2030, the company aims to Set new industry standards for driving the transition to the plastics circular economy and solidifying the market for recycled polyethylene, with 30 per cent of its polyethylene sales[i] from recycled contet; Be at the forefront of decarbonization by reducing its Scope 1 and 2 absoute CO2 emissions by 30 per cent[ii]; and Become a Top 30 company in Canada. Outlined in NOVA 2030: Our Roadmap to Sustainability Leadership, NOVA Chemicals has also shared its aspiration to reach net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2050. “NOVA’s Roadmap to Sustainability Leadership details a strong plan forward for the company to become the leader in sustainable polyethylene production while building on our commitments to developing innovative solutions for our customers, enabling the circular economy, and being a responsible steward of our environment,” stated Danny Dweik, CEO. “Plastic products play an essential role in our daily lives. With our renewed purpose of reshaping plastics for a better, more sustainable world, we have developed a clear pathway to become a catalyst for a low carbon, zero-plastic-waste future.” To achieve these aspirations, NOVA Chemicals anticipates investing between USD$2-4 billion by 2030 to expand its sustainable product offerings, decarbonize assets, and build a state-of-the-art mechanical recycling business while exploring new advanced recycling technologies to create high-quality, high-performance recyclable and low carbon plastics. Building on its proprietary, Advanced SCLAIRTECHTM technology, NOVA Chemicals will explore expanding its product portfolio to include the development of innovative, advanced materials. These new product offerings, which will include the company’s first ASTUTE™ polyolefin plastomers line, will better serve existing customers and provide more options for sustainability-focused end markets such as electric vehicles and renewables. NOVA Chemicals has already begun growing its portfolio of recycled and recyclable polyethylene resins through its recently announced launch of SYNDIGO™ recycled polyethylene, a new portfolio of products made from circular polymers to encourage both waste and emissions reductions. The company’s 2030 aspirations are shorter-term objectives that will help NOVA Chemicals reach its ultimate goal of achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 absolute CO2 emissions by 2050. NOVA Chemicals has developed a technical solutions-focused roadmap for decarbonizing its asset base by improving energy efficiencies, electrifying and acquiring renewable power, and exploring clean hydrogen as a low carbon fuel source and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage. The company will also continue to pursue new technologies to abate and eliminate emissions from its production processes, such as the development of its proprietary Low Emissions Ethylene Process technology. The company has also announced a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Shell Energy for renewable power, marking the first of many opportunities to increase low carbon, renewable energy in its power portfolio. Today’s announcement builds upon NOVA Chemicals’ long-standing commitment to developing innovative solutions for its customers while enabling the circular economy and preparing for and responding to a changing world. NOVA’s approach to managing its material ESG topics including Responsible Care® and its commitment to the environment, health, and safety, can be found in its annual ESG report. About NOVA Chemicals Corporation NOVA Chemicals aspires to be the leading sustainable polyethylene producer in North America. Our driving purpose is to reshape plastics for a better, more sustainable world by delivering innovative solutions that help make everyday life healthier and safer and acting as a catalyst for a low carbon, zero-plastic-waste future. NOVA Chemicals’ innovative and quality product offerings, value chain collaboration, and unique customer experience is what sets us apart; our customers use our products to create easy-to-recycle and recycled content films, packaging, and products.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT, PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES

M. Holland Company Partners with Lavergne to Distribute PCR Resins, Enabling Material and Price Stability for Customers in North America

M. HOLLAND | March 17, 2023

M. Holland Company, a leading international distributor of thermoplastic resins and ancillary materials, today announced a new partnership with Lavergne, a global manufacturer specializing in the formulation of customized compounded engineered resins, to distribute post-consumer recycled (PCR) resins. This partnership will allow M. Holland’s clients to access Lavergne’s certified PCR resins with increased supply chain security and pricing stability. “Sustainability is a primary focus for the plastics industry, and the demand for PCR resins has accelerated in recent years,” said Samantha Stone, Global Sourcing Leader, Sustainability, at M. Holland. “Lavergne produces superior, renewed thermoplastic resins that we’re proud to offer our customers. Our partnership with Lavergne will help meet the demand for PCR resins for our clients in North America, where there is currently no viable solution. M. Holland’s customers should also benefit from more stable pricing because Lavergne’s portfolio is 100% recycled plastics and does not depend on shifting petroleum prices.” PCR resins are a growing product segment that complements traditional petroleum-based resins. There is burgeoning demand for PCR resins to meet the needs of brand owners and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), many of whom have set aggressive sustainability goals. Demand is growing across several durable goods segments, including automotive, consumer electronics, home appliances, and office furniture and supplies. M. Holland’s customers can be confident in the quality of resins produced by Lavergne, which has 35 years of experience in the plastics industry. “With a shared vision for sustainability, establishing a partnership with M. Holland was an easy decision,” said Benoit Bessette, Vice President, Strategy and Planning, at Lavergne. “We look forward to working with M. Holland and educating the market on the necessary transition to PCR resins by supplying trusted and cost-effective, sustainable materials, while drastically reducing their carbon footprint.” Lavergne is an industry leader in the advancement of engineered thermoplastics focusing on designing, developing and manufacturing high-value sustainable resins using 100% PCR plastics. It has manufacturing sites in Montreal, Belgium, Vietnam and Haiti, providing supply chain security, high-quality certified materials and stable pricing for M. Holland’s customers. ABOUT M. HOLLAND M. Holland is a leading international distributor of thermoplastic resins, providing suppliers with the most strategic channels to market, offering clients innovative sourcing and supply chain solutions, delivering materials that empower sustainable innovation, and helping people lead rewarding careers. Since 1950, a deep commitment to personal relationships and innovation has formed the core of the company’s heritage, culture and vision. Headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, M. Holland has over $1.5 billion in annual sales, partners with more than 4,000 customers annually, and serves over 70 countries across North America, LATAM, EMEA and Asia. M. Holland has offices located in the U.S., Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Netherlands.

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CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT, PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES

Purecycle Mitsui Sign Heads of Agreement

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Read More

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