Recent chemical industry developments highlight regulatory tensions and operational changes. EPA workers are protesting new leadership under Zeldin, with 139 employees placed on administrative leave amid accusations of science politicization and environmental justice program cuts. Trump granted the chemical industry a two-year EPA exemption, addressing industry concerns about previous regulations. Meanwhile, Braskem launched its $89 million Brave Future ethane carrier as part of fleet expansion, while Dow announced closures of three European plants by 2027 to improve margins. Researchers developed a breakthrough catalytic method converting biopolymers into recyclable high-performance plastics.
EPA Workers Revolt Against Zeldin; 139 Placed on Leave
Agency accused of politicizing science while gutting environmental justice programs.
Trump Grants Two-Year EPA Chemical Industry Exemption
The American Chemistry Council said Trump's action addresses several 'concerning parts' of the Biden administration’s rule.
Braskem Christens New Ethane Carrier as Part of Fleet Expansion
The Brazilian petrochemical company's $89 million Brave Future vessel will operate between the US, Mexico and Brazil, with four more ships expected by 2026 to boost logistics autonomy.
Dow to Shut Down Three European Chemical Plants by End of 2027
Dow will close upstream sites in Germany and the UK to reduce high-cost capacity and improve operational margins across its European portfolio.
New Catalytic Method Transforms Biopolymer into Recyclable High-Performance Plastics
Study outlines how a natural biopolymer can be upconverted into customizable plastics and chiral compounds for chemical manufacturing.
