The transformative benefits of curiosity-driven research
Industry collaboration is crucial for curiosity-driven research, the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) says in a recent report. The UK Government confirmed in November 2025 that curiosity-driven research will receive £14bn for the period 2026-2030 through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), 36% of UKRI’s total budget.
Leader: Bad COP, good COP?
The most recent UN COP climate science meeting in Belem, Brazil, was seen by many as something of a damp squib, with the usual lengthy process to arrive at a final statement that was acceptable to all attendees long after the final events ended.
AI for farmers: How new technologies are taking on plant pests and diseases
Plant pests and diseases take 20 to 40% of global crop yields every year. AI is now helping to reduce these yield losses with smarter, more precise applications of agrochemicals. Anthony King reports
Industry outlook: Specialty and fine chemicals stagnate
Chemical distribution is experiencing a flat period. During October, US specialty chemical and fine chemical volumes remained largely unchanged at 3.53m t, following slight gains of 0.2% in both September and August, according to research from US-based Swift Economics. This level of activity resulted in volumes being up a moderate 1.8% year-over-year and above pre-pandemic levels. Segment-wise, October saw mixed expansion, with 15 out of 30 market segments growing.
Business digest: Chemistry industry updates
The latest business digest for C&I Issue 12 2025 with all the latest mergers and acquisitions in the chemical industry.