Chemical Week WPC 2025: Dow CEO Fitterling and S&P Global's Eramo on the state of the industry
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Mar 25, 2025 Join Dow CEO Jim Fitterling, an expert in market outlook and sustainability, and Mark Eramo, co-president of S&P Global, as they uncover the current state of the chemical industry. They discuss the impact of geopolitical tensions on market dynamics and the importance of the energy transition. The duo emphasizes the necessity of adopting a circular economy to address plastic waste while navigating the challenges of decarbonization. They also explore how AI and digital technologies can revolutionize operational efficiencies in the sector.
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Length of Current Economic Downturn
- The current economic trough, lasting over three years, is unusually long for the chemical industry.
- This extended downturn is attributed to sustained low global GDP growth, particularly in the U.S. and China.
Consumer Demand for Circularity
- Consumers desire circularity and solutions to plastic waste, but cost remains a barrier.
- Advanced recycling is crucial for achieving true circularity by enabling higher-quality recycled materials.
Market for Zero-Emission Products
- Customers are willing to pay for zero-carbon emission products like ethylene.
- Dow's net-zero cracker in Alberta will produce a substantial amount of zero-emission ethylene.