Chemical recycling in Europe remains nascent mostly due to unattractive economics. The industry can achieve cost parity with virgin plastics production, but this will take 20-30 years and require over €400bn in cumulative capex. Companies have a window of opportunity to be early movers and reap material benefits.
The Government is pushing for the UK to become a ‘science superpower’, but infrastructure is not keeping pace. Several factors contribute to the shortage, but the most significant is the rapid growth of the scientific research sector. Scientific publications are increasing at an exponential rate of 5.6%/year.
The rapid advance of robotics is fundamentally altering the global industrial landscape. While this promises enhanced productivity, it also raises concerns about the future of employment. As automation becomes more integrated into factories, warehouses and supply chains, the critical issue of workforce adaptation and reskilling has emerged as a paramount challenge.