Summary
This discussion paper delves into the validity and feasibility of defining “strategic chemicals” within the EU’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability. The paper argues that the chemical sector’s importance lies in its contribution to various strategic value chains essential for the Green Deal, Industrial Strategy, and Economic Recovery Plan. Cefic suggests focusing on “strategic value chains” or “strategic ecosystems” instead of trying to define specific “strategic chemicals.”
Concrete Takeaways
- Defining some chemicals as strategic implies others are non-strategic, which could negatively impact innovation and supply chains.
- Individual chemicals are intricately linked in supply chains, making it difficult to single out which are strategic.
- The strategic importance of a substance may change over time, complicating regulation.