Latest news with #Khalfanal-Muhairi
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GCC countries seen as key player in advancing global circular economy
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The GCC countries are well-positioned to play an important role in advancing the world's circular economy, owing to their established status as a global hub for plastics production and export, access to world-class infrastructure, and emphasis on research and innovation. However, the development of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), alongside government incentives and regulations, will be essential to delivering tangible progress in plastic waste management and circularity. Speaking at the 14th Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Plastics Conference held in Riyadh on April 20–21, industry leaders agreed that innovation and collaboration are vital to achieving economies of scale, driving sustainability, and enabling continued industry growth. In his welcome remarks on Sunday, Khalfan al-Muhairi, SVP Regional MEAE at Borouge and Vice-Chairman of the GPCA Plastics Committee, said, 'As we look towards the future, one thing is abundantly clear: the journey ahead cannot be undertaken alone. It demands a collective, unwavering commitment from all of us – from industry leaders to policymakers, from innovators to our communities and youth. Together, we must align our ambitions, mobilise our resources, and take decisive action to address the challenges and opportunities that lie before us.' Deena F al-Khayyal, Managing Director at LyondellBasell (LYB), delivered a keynote address on the future of plastics and the impact of key trends and disruptions on the regional industry. Her speech explored the evolving landscape of the plastics sector and how increasing regulatory pressures and changing consumer demands are influencing the industry. A leadership dialogue at the conference examined the financial dimensions of transitioning to sustainable and circular plastics. The programme continued with sessions focused on investment in plastics ecosystems, transforming plastic waste into high-impact solutions, the future of plastics circularity, and a series of insightful case studies. Dr Abdulwahab al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, commented, 'Driving meaningful solutions to plastic waste management is no longer a choice; it's an urgent necessity. A comprehensive approach will require government incentives and regulations that encourage investment while providing clarity and confidence to investors and technology providers. Advanced recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling, are poised to play a vital role in this transition.' He added, 'To unlock new opportunities, scaling up investment in advanced recycling infrastructure is imperative. Key actions include promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), establishing regional standards, and fostering economies of scale. Supporting innovation and nurturing circular economy start-ups will also be critical to developing smart and sustainable solutions that can transform the future of plastic waste management.' During the conference, GPCA launched a new report in collaboration with the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre (KAPSARC), titled 'Advancing Plastic Waste Recycling in the GCC: Policies, Technologies, and Economic Opportunities.' The report offers a detailed assessment of the state of plastic waste recycling in the GCC and serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders seeking to enhance plastic waste management policies and practices in the region. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
21-04-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
GCC countries seen as key player in advancing global circular economy
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The GCC countries are well-positioned to play an important role in advancing the world's circular economy, owing to their established status as a global hub for plastics production and export, access to world-class infrastructure, and emphasis on research and innovation. However, the development of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), alongside government incentives and regulations, will be essential to delivering tangible progress in plastic waste management and circularity. Speaking at the 14th Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Plastics Conference held in Riyadh on April 20–21, industry leaders agreed that innovation and collaboration are vital to achieving economies of scale, driving sustainability, and enabling continued industry growth. In his welcome remarks on Sunday, Khalfan al-Muhairi, SVP Regional MEAE at Borouge and Vice-Chairman of the GPCA Plastics Committee, said, 'As we look towards the future, one thing is abundantly clear: the journey ahead cannot be undertaken alone. It demands a collective, unwavering commitment from all of us – from industry leaders to policymakers, from innovators to our communities and youth. Together, we must align our ambitions, mobilise our resources, and take decisive action to address the challenges and opportunities that lie before us.' Deena F al-Khayyal, Managing Director at LyondellBasell (LYB), delivered a keynote address on the future of plastics and the impact of key trends and disruptions on the regional industry. Her speech explored the evolving landscape of the plastics sector and how increasing regulatory pressures and changing consumer demands are influencing the industry. A leadership dialogue at the conference examined the financial dimensions of transitioning to sustainable and circular plastics. The programme continued with sessions focused on investment in plastics ecosystems, transforming plastic waste into high-impact solutions, the future of plastics circularity, and a series of insightful case studies. Dr Abdulwahab al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, commented, 'Driving meaningful solutions to plastic waste management is no longer a choice; it's an urgent necessity. A comprehensive approach will require government incentives and regulations that encourage investment while providing clarity and confidence to investors and technology providers. Advanced recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling, are poised to play a vital role in this transition.' He added, 'To unlock new opportunities, scaling up investment in advanced recycling infrastructure is imperative. Key actions include promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), establishing regional standards, and fostering economies of scale. Supporting innovation and nurturing circular economy start-ups will also be critical to developing smart and sustainable solutions that can transform the future of plastic waste management.' During the conference, GPCA launched a new report in collaboration with the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre (KAPSARC), titled 'Advancing Plastic Waste Recycling in the GCC: Policies, Technologies, and Economic Opportunities.' The report offers a detailed assessment of the state of plastic waste recycling in the GCC and serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders seeking to enhance plastic waste management policies and practices in the region.
Zawya
02-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Every 1mln ton of GCC-produced recycled plastic generate 1,500 jobs, $650mln in direct GDP: GPCA
According to a study, advancements in chemical recycling technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional plastic production methods. Every 1mn ton of recycled plastic produced in the GCC can generate approximately 1,500 jobs and $650mn in direct GDP impact in the region, according to research estimates. Innovation is a driving force behind value creation in the GCC plastic industry, contributing to sustainability, economic growth, and technological advancements, Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) said in a report. Accelerating innovation plays a crucial role across product design, business models, and resource management, and can support efforts to achieving circular economy in the GCC. Continuous innovation in polymer production and conversion technologies has enabled the GCC region to maintain a competitive edge in the global market. This includes advancements in recycling technologies and the development of new, sustainable materials. GPCA will explore the role of innovation in driving value creation and growth at the 14th GPCA Plastics Conference taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on April 20 and 21. According to a study, advancements in chemical recycling technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional plastic production methods. The 14th GPCA Plastics Conference will provide an ideal platform to spotlight innovations in plastics recycling and discuss the role of regulations in creating an enabling environment for growth. Held under the theme: 'The next growth paradigm: value creation through innovation', the conference will open with a welcome address by Khalfan al-Muhairi, SVP Regional MEAE, Borouge and Vice-Chairman, Plastics Committee, GPCA, followed by a ministerial address outlining regional policy priorities. Dr Abdulwahab al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: 'In the pursuit of the next paradigm of plastics growth, fostering innovation and collaboration will be essential to address the sustainability challenges of our time, while meeting the demand for sustainable plastics and ensuring socio-economic growth. 'By fostering cutting-edge advancements and sustainable practices, we can enhance the plastics industry's position as a dynamic driver of economic growth and environmental stewardship. The 14th GPCA Plastics Conference will serve as a beacon for visionary leaders and innovators from across the region and the world to collaborate and redefine the future of plastics for generations to come.' Ends © Gulf Times Newspaper 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
