AFPM ’19: US petchems strong, industry committed to address challenges – AFPM CEO

SAN ANTONIO (ICIS)–In the middle of an expansion, the likes of which have never been seen, the state of the US petrochemical industry is very strong, the CEO at the American Fuel and Petrochemicals Manufacturers (AFPM) said on Monday.

Opening the 44th AFPM International Petrochemical Conference (IPC), Chet Thompson stressed how the industry must continue to engage with government and citizens and do its part to address the most challenging issues facing society.

He mentioned, specifically, sustainability issues such as climate change and plastic waste.

“It doesn’t mean we should accept the premise that mankind would be better off without our products,” he said.

“We must continue to collaborate and engage … and stand our ground. We must remain focused on what we do best.”

Thomson pointed to the countless applications of products derived from petrochemicals and the way the industry underpins manufacturing.

Thompson (pictured) said those products allow people worldwide to flourish, not simply survive.

A number of proposals to tackle critical issues however are “simply out of touch”, he said, referring specifically to the US’ Green New Deal (GND), a set of proposed economic programmes aimed at addressing climate change and economic inequality.

AFPM is looking for a successful USMCA, the US, Mexico, and Canada free trade agreement replacing NAFTA, and pressing for critical infrastructure reform.

On its campaigning agenda are science-based implementation of toxic substances control, US regulatory reform and a successful resolution of the trade dispute with China.

Hosted by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), the IPC takes place on 24-26 March in San Antonio, Texas.

Top picture: Petrochemicals facilities in Texas City, Texas
Pictures sources: David J Phillip/AP/REX/Shutterstock and AFPM