The world we live in is in transition. With the adoption of the United Nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development and its 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) as well as the signing of the Paris Agreement, the world has taken a new pathway in action on climate change and the environment.

Europe is a hub for leading chemical companies, and a front-runner in chemistry research and development. And across industries – from health, hygiene, construction and mobility to agriculture and energy supply – chemicals are an essential ingredient, vital to a competitive business landscape, and an important part of the transition to a sustainable society.

The European chemical industry is fully committed to the Paris Agreement, and strongly believes that a thriving industry goes hand in hand with solutions to combat climate change. In its Sustainability Report, launched on Oct. 27, the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) outlines how the chemical industry is contributing to a more prosperous and sustainable Europe.

Doing more with less can go hand in hand with building prosperous societies. By continuing to make improvements and breakthrough innovations, the chemical industry can create advanced product solutions that significantly accelerate the transition to a resource efficient, low-carbon and circular economy.

Furthermore, the European chemical industry also cares for people and planet, by not only meeting the most rigorous safety standards, but by going beyond legislation on health, safety, security and the environment (HSSE).

Thierry Vanlancker, CEO of AkzoNobel and chair of the CEFIC program council Sustainability said: “As a solution provider and supplier to virtually all sectors of the economy, the chemical industry is a key player in making the transition to a low-carbon economy, reducing our society’s dependence on natural resources, preventing waste and promoting the safe use of chemicals downstream the supply chain”.

Marco Mensink, CEFIC director general, added: “Through this charter we demonstrate our commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement. Transition to a more sustainable economy offers unique growth opportunities for the chemical industry, which creates jobs and prosperity at the same time.”

CEFIC also launched its ChemistryCan website, which shows some of the many examples of its members’ contribution to meeting the UN sustainable development goals.