Did you know that 96% of goods produced depend on some form of the chemical process? The chemical industry is an essential supplier for all other industry sectors not just in Slovakia but also in the EU. The sustainability trend is also at the forefront in this segment.
Although the European Union already has the most comprehensive chemical legislation in the world, there is room for improvement. Therefore, last year the European Commission adopted a strategy called Chemicals – Strategy for Sustainability. It should be directed towards a toxic-free environment.
It has defined several objectives: better protection of people and the environment from chemicals, support of innovation for safe and sustainable alternatives, and enabling the transition to chemicals that are safe and sustainable by design.
It is also the first step in achieving the ambition of zero pollution without toxic substances, as announced by the European Green Deal. The chemical industry plays an important role in the process. It participates in solutions that will help meet the objectives set out in the Deal – solar panels, hydrogen technologies, reducing the energy demand of buildings and so on. This transformation should also bring new materials, processes and energy sources.
Undoubtedly, this strategy will also have a significant impact on the chemical and pharmaceutical industries in Slovakia, where more than 10% of all employees in the industry work. We should see it as an opportunity for a change for the better.
Why do we mention the chemical industry? Several of our activities also fall into this industry. We know that change is necessary, and therefore we are gradually trying to reduce the impact of our business and solutions on the environment, for example, by developing biodegradable packaging or producing polypropylene yarn that has been environmentally friendly for many years.