INGENIEUR
Chemical engineers are in an ideal position to develop solutions for some of today ’ s most important problems , such as providing food , potable water , goods , and energy to a growing population . Satisfying these needs via conventional methods would be impossible and potentially disastrous for the planet . Significant advances are needed to improve productivity and yield of crops , reduce environmental contamination , improve energy and water stewardship , and more .
Investor Peter Thiel argues that “ the amazing advances we have seen in computer science and communications have masked ominously disappointing progress in energy , transportation , biotech , disease prevention , and space travel ”. Fortunately , via Industry 4.0 , the CPI are now innovating in areas such as the industrial Internet of Things ( IIoT ), analytics using big data ( which enable faster and smarter decision-making ), broader connectivity via the cloud , advanced robotics , and improved machine-to-machine communications .
Some specific examples of chemical engineering solutions that have great potential for wider application , and thus are avenues for potential innovation , include :
● process intensification , i . e ., any chemical engineering development that leads to a substantially smaller , cleaner , and more energy-efficient technology ;
● alternative / clean energy systems ;
● alternative production processes and chemical reactions that can reduce waste generation , consume less water , require less dangerous materials , and result in greater energy efficiency or higher yields of the desired product ;
● automation systems that can optimise production and quality and reduce production costs ;
● nanotechnology and nanomaterials ;
● advanced pharmaceuticals ;
● more-sustainable building and construction materials ; and
● drones and robots to minimise or avoid risks to people associated with handling hazardous chemicals and work in confined spaces or elevated locations ( e . g ., for flare inspections ).
Principles for Best Practice Chemical Regulation – Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD )
According to the OECD and other experts , regulations that conform to best practice in chemical regulation are characterised by the following principles and features :
● Minimum necessary to achieve objectives :
○ Ensure overall benefits justify costs , and ensure that the regulatory approach chosen has higher net benefits than its feasible alternatives
○ Keep simple to avoid unnecessary restrictions
○ Target the problem to achieve the objectives
○ Do not impose an unnecessary burden on those affected
○ Do not restrict competition , unless demonstrated net benefit
● Not unduly prescriptive
○ Performance and outcomes focus
○ General rather than specific
● Accessible , transparent and accountable
○ Readily accessible to the public
○ Easy to understand
○ Flexible enough to deal with special circumstances
○ Open to appeal and review
● Integrated and consistent with other laws
○ Address a specific market failure or other significant problem not addressed by other regulations
○ Recognise existing regulations so as to avoid overlap / duplication and international obligations
● Recognise industry voluntary measures
○ Voluntary industry programmes such as Responsible Care and the Global Products Strategy provide effective tools to help manage the health , safety and environmental aspects of a chemical throughout its lifecycle
● Communicated effectively
○ Written in plain language
○ Clear and concise
● Mindful of the compliance burden imposed
○ Proportionate to the problem
○ Set at levels that avoid unnecessary costs
42 VOL 86 APRIL-JUNE 2021