Readers' letters

Chemical reactions

14 December 2009 00:00  [Source: ICB]

ICIS Chemical Business is developing ways of communicating even better with its readers. Join our forums on Europe's Reach regulation and the Recruitment Campaign!

FORUMS ARE A FRESH WAY TO TALK ABOUT CHEMISTRY
Deputy Editor's note:

During 2009, ICIS Chemical Business has pushed further online through forums. These discussion spaces are a quick and effective way to make your voice stand out from the crowd.

For 2010, make it your New Year's resolution to get involved with groups on Europe's Reach chemical regulation and the ICIS Recruitment Campaign!

Here are some excerpts from recent discussions:

TELL US ABOUT TRAINING FOR CHEMICAL WORKERS
Today I found out about a vocational training course that could benefit the chemical sector in the UK. Please let us know about any other similar initiatives, especially in Europe, the US and Asia.

The Diploma in Manufac-turing and Product Design (MPD) was launched in schools and colleges across England in September.

It is being taught in partnership with employers to give young people the chance to learn about manufacturing and develop skills and knowledge.

Chemical Bill

RESPONSE: HOW ABOUT SINGAPORE'S EXAMPLE?
Just read that Singapore's Institute of Technical Education will launch a new biologics course next year. Good news, as this is a fast-growing area and the local industry is expected to double its workforce, currently around 1,300 people, in the next two years.

Six new biologics manufacturing plants are planned in Singapore, and the global biologics market grows at 10-15%/year.

Skipper

 

REACH IS RESULT OF STEWARDSHIP FAILURE
"Reach is a self-inflicted consequence of the great majority of chemical companies and downstream users not taking their product stewardship obligations seriously." Do you agree?

Chris Eacott

RESPONSE: INDUSTRY HAS FAILED TO ENGAGE
I do think that the industry takes its product stewardship responsibilities seriously in parts of the world. The European sector talks to journalists about it at every possible opportunity.

But I think that the industry has relied on unconvincing logical arguments that have not engaged society. The paradox is that within five streets of the site chemical companies have generally good reputations. Across town though, things can often be different.

We are living in societies where people have only a little grasp of science, and it is easier to fear something you don't really grasp. Industry must find a way to engage the scientifically disenfranchised or there may be more legislation like Reach in future.

Simon Robinson

By: Joseph Chang
+1 713 525 2653

For the latest chemical news, data and analysis that directly impacts your business sign up for a free trial to ICIS news - the breaking online news service for the global chemical industry.

Get the facts and analysis behind the headlines from our market leading weekly magazine: sign up to a free trial to ICIS Chemical Business.

Printer Friendly