Globalization, once considered an unstoppable force, is under intense pressure. The recent attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea serve as a strong reminder of the vulnerabilities in our interconnected world.
Now more than ever, Europe must take a close look in the mirror. The crisis in the Red Sea is yet another wake-up call urging policymakers and industrial leaders to plan for greater self-sufficiency in critical sectors.
The European industry is still heavily reliant on fossil energy and fossil raw materials, particularly in the chemical industry, a sector that provides building blocks for virtually all other industries. This poses a problem in itself, considering the need for an overall green transition. For Europe specifically, the deep fossil tracks also entail a dependence on the import of raw materials.
Europe is currently facing multiple challenges simultaneously: security, the economy, and the climate. Effectively reducing dependence on imported fossil raw materials addresses multiple crises at once.
Alongside recycling, the obvious starting point is a shift towards greater independence with biomass, which Europe has in abundance. From vast forests to agricultural residues, there is value to create and European value chains to connect.
No one can do everything, but considerably more can significantly contribute. Reviewing your fossil streams is justified for several reasons and is a task that should be prioritized – for today’s, and especially for tomorrow’s business.
Eva-Marie Byberg
Head of Sustainability
This is the concluding comment of Sekab newsletter, this time by Head of Sustainability Eva-Marie Byberg, read all our newsletters here