Media Statement in Response to Ohio River Valley Institute’s Recycling Report
Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania Chemical Industry Council President Steve Kratz issued the following
statement in response to the recent Ohio River Valley Institute’s Recycling Report:
“The chemical industry in Pennsylvania is a significant economic driver supporting high-wage jobs, generating tax revenue for communities, and advancing sustainable solutions for a better environment. It also plays a crucial role in creating the essential building blocks for manufacturing everyday products that enhance quality of life across industries such as medical equipment, renewable energy, food packaging, electronics, and more, with global demand expected to increase.”
“To achieve meaningful environmental progress, we need solutions and innovation, not more reports highlighting challenges without offering realistic solutions. An analysis by Accenture in 2023 revealed that over the last five years, the chemical industry has invested an estimated $60 billion to $90 billion in new plants producing sustainability-related products such as bio-based products, chemical and battery recycling, and initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at existing facilities.”
“To encourage such investments, Pennsylvania appropriately regulates appropriate advanced recycling technologies as manufacturers, not waste facilities. This important distinction provides regulatory certainty to attract new economic investment while ensuring full compliance with PA DEP, EPA, and other relevant permitting requirements.”
“Industry innovators, regulators, and policymakers will continue collaborating to develop achievable solutions that drive significant environmental impact and unleash economic growth—all while upholding the world’s highest safety and sustainability standards.”
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