New opportunities for the chemical industry

New opportunities for the chemical industry

The chemical industry is one of the largest industries in the world and covers many different sectors. From pesticides to cosmetics, chemicals are an integral part of the market. It’s crucial to consider how further development could take place and what opportunities are open to taking.

Economic benefits of sustainability

Sustainability in the chemical industry is not new but its value has changed. It gained importance and grew much larger in the market economy. Now it is a key topic for investors, customers and regulators. Undisputedly, the chemical industry has an indispensable role to play in conquering existing challenges such as climate change. This turnaround can also be seen in Europe, the second largest producer of chemicals. Many companies have already understood the opportunities that arise from this. In addition to generating financial savings, a sustainable business concept significantly enhances the brand value of the company. This stimulates innovation, attracts investment and strengthens customer loyalty. It also offers an advantage in recruiting professionals.

If sustainability is not respected, this can lead to significant reputational damage. In addition, high fines should be imposed if issues such as occupational safety and environmental impact are not sufficiently implemented.

Outlook

With growing social enforcement and new regulations, the pressure on companies to choose a sustainable path is increasing. It is therefore advisable to take this issue seriously, even for companies that have so far been closed to this topic. The possible benefits outweigh the effort to be made. We are happy to support our business partner in evaluating sustainable measures.

New regulations in China

New regulations in China

Concerning the transport of dangerous goods, China has tightened its requirements in recent months. New binding rules or bans on the transport of highly toxic chemicals, as well as new customs regulations, should be explicitly observed.

Regulations for the transport of dangerous goods by road were already adopted in 2018, but these were not binding. The first binding administrative measure for the safety of the carriage of dangerous goods by road came into force on 1 January 2020. This measure, which has a comprehensive scope of regulation, must be applied and includes a list of proven infringements of the rules. With these regulations, China is moving closer and closer to the content of the ADR (Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road).

Chinese customs legislation

Since the beginning of 2021, a new customs regulation has been passed for the import and export of dangerous goods to China. The General Administration of Customs of the Peoples Republic of China (GACC) is responsible for inspecting imported and exported hazardous chemicals. Special mention should be made of Notice 129, which requires importers and exporters of hazardous chemicals to provide specific data relating to hazardous goods and chemical legislation. Also, declarations of conformity, inspection, and identification reports are needed. The UN specification marking of the packaging is also presented and is therefore required to a certain extent.

Regional transport bans

In addition, regional regulations have been adopted. The Yangtze River Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China came into force on 1 March 2021. It prohibits the transport of highly toxic chemicals through the ports of the Yangtze Basin, including the Waigaoqiao Port Area. It is prohibited to import or export the listed chemicals on this waterway or to use them for transit or transfer. Under Article 90 of the Act, infringements of the rules may result in fines, closures, or revocations of licenses.

UK Reach adaption

UK Reach adaption

Since 31st January 2020, the United Kingdom is no longer a member of the EU. Until today, they are actively working on adapting to former EU regulations. Thus, a substitute for the REACh regulation (UK Reach) was developed. This regulation has recently been revised.

New deadlines

The deadline for registering substances with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been extended. This was decided by the UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Specifically, the following deadlines now apply:

  • 27 October 2026 for substances included on the EU REACH candidate list before UK REACH came into effect; carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction and manufactured or imported in quantities of 1 tonne/year or more; very toxic to aquatic life and manufactured or imported in quantities of 100 tonnes/year or more; and all substances manufactured or imported in quantities of 1,000 tonnes/year or more
  • 27 October 2028 for substances added to the UK REACH candidate list before the 2023 submission deadline, or which are manufactured or imported in quantities of 100 tonnes/year or more
  • 27 October 2030 for all substances manufactured or imported in quantities of 1 tonne/year or more *

Outlook

REACH UK is not as mature as the European model yet. We recommend all companies keep up-to-date with news and updates regularly. The official HSE website is advisable (see here).

 

*Source: https://www.specchemonline.com/uk-reach-deadlines-be-extended

Petrex GmbH got the EcoVadis Platinum Medal

Petrex GmbH got the EcoVadis Platinum Medal

Sustainability is a process –

We’re happy to take part in!

Again in 2023, the CSR rating provider EcoVadis evaluated our efforts in the area of sustainability. We are pleased to receive a platinum medal, which puts us at the forefront of the industry comparison.

We appreciate the close cooperation with suppliers, customers and partners to be more sustainable together.

Any questions, we will be happy to assist.

Petrex GmbH is carbon neutral

Petrex GmbH is carbon neutral

Every company should critically question its environmental footprint and take measures to reduce it. Petrex GmbH also deals intensively with the subject of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).

About GHG

Greenhouse gases are the gases in the atmosphere that have an impact on the Earth’s energy balance. So they push the so-called greenhouse effect. Each company is directly or indirectly involved in causing these emissions. To calculate the impact of a company, three scopes are considered.

Cooperation with Climate Partner

Although some measures can reduce emissions, there is still a residual quantity. By working together with ClimatePartner, we have found a serious way to offset these remaining emissions. Petrex GmbH is therefore climate neutral. You are welcome to receive further information here.

Year of the rabbit

Year of the rabbit

Dear business partner,

According to the Lunar calendar, 2023 is the year of the rabbit.

The rabbit is seen as friendly, peaceful and diplomatic.

However, rabbits follow their targets with precision and know exactly what they want.

Below we would like to share the dates of public holidays in China 2023:

  • International New Year       Jan 1
  • Chinese New Year                 Jan 21 – 27
  • Qing Ming Festival                Apr 5
  • Labor Day                                May 1 – 5
  • Dragon Boat Festival            Jun 22 – 23
  • Mid-Autumn Festival           Sep 29
  • National Day                          Sep 30 – Oct 6