The Dual Challenge: Producing Petrochemicals and Energy Sustainably with Chet Thompson of AFPM - Ep. 109

American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) to chat about his organization's efforts towards a circular economy and rail safety. Victoria and Chet discuss the importance of recycling and innovation, the challenges of reducing plastic waste, rail safety, the dual challenge of producing energy while maintaining sustainability, and the immense value and benefits of plastics.

Learn more about the following in this episode:

•  AFPM's top priorities
•  Storytelling in the chemical industry
•  UN Plastics Treaty
•  Education and Awareness of Advanced Recycling
•  The EPA's proposed draft strategy to prevent plastic pollution
•  Achieving a circular economy
•  Challenges with Rail Transportation

Chet emphasizes the importance of approaching plastics in a nuanced and balanced way, neither treating them as inherently good nor bad, but recognizing their essential role in modern life. Victoria and Chet also discuss the benefits of advanced recycling, which creates "pure feedstock" that can be reused in new products. Thompson expresses his optimism for progress within Congress to enhance public safety for rail and promote competition in the industry.

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AFPM sustainability report: https://afpm.org/data-reports/publications/sustainability-report

AFPM: https://afpm.org/

Progress: https://wemakeprogress.org/

Empower: https://empower.afpm.org/