As the reserves of natural gas are dwindling and the importance of decreasing global greenhouse gas emissions rises, shale gas is quickly becoming one of the most viable sources of natural gas. Several experts believe that shale gas will significantly expand the world's energy supply. In the year 2000, only 1 percent of U.S. natural gas production came from shale and it has already grown to over 20%. That number continues to rise and is projected to reach over 45% by the year 2035. This increase in development is what is known as the Shale Gas Revolution.

It is important to know and understand what has caused this revolution as well as what impact it will have on energy and raw material prices and markets. Shale gas is becoming a key competitive advantage for the US industry. It is less certain whether or not shale gas will have similar success in other parts of the world in the foreseeable future due to major technical, environmental and political challenges. Not only might this generate strong growth for North American chemical businesses, but it may also cause noticeable headwind for the European chemical industry. Strategies for dealing with the challenges and seizing opportunities are important and a key topic for chemical companies in the near future.

Edgar Volpert is uniquely prepared to discuss these topics in depth as the Vice President of Global Marketing for United Initiators, Germany. He studied Chemistry at the University of Cologne where he specialized in Physical and Colloid Chemistry. He started his professional career with Schlumberger where he got first experience in the US as a field engineer. Over the years he worked as a project manager, held several positions in R&D, business unit manager, and finally as Regional Director for South America before fulfilling his current position.

Edgar will be discussing the opportunities and challenges presented by shale gas at the Chemicals Sales & Marketing Toolbox being held on the 3rd & 4th of June in Berlin. He will be addressing the following questions:

• What caused the shale gas revolution?
• What impact has it on energy and raw material prices and markets?
• How will this impact the global chemical industry and specifically Europe?
• What are the strategic implications?