SABIC is steadfast in its commitment to combat climate change, engaging in innovative partnerships and initiatives that drive sustainability across the globe.

With a focus on creating a circular economy for plastics, the company is actively involved in several key collaborations aimed at reducing environmental impact and fostering responsible resource management.

One significant initiative is the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW), launched in early 2019 with the support of 20 founding members, including SABIC.

This alliance seeks to harness innovation and scale up solutions that promote sustainable practices in the plastic industry.

It brings together some of the world's foremost companies from the chemical, plastic, consumer goods, and waste management sectors, all united in their commitment to advancing AEPW's mission.

SABIC's engagement within the alliance is robust, with representation on the board and participation in regional strategic and implementation task forces.

In 2023, AEPW further expanded its impact by partnering with Lombard Odier Investment Managers (LOIM) to establish the Circular Plastics Fund.

This initiative aims to generate positive environmental, social, and economic outcomes while providing attractive financial returns.

By fostering investment in innovative recycling technologies and circular business models, SABIC and its partners are positioning themselves at the forefront of the global shift towards sustainability.

Building on its commitment to carbon neutrality, SABIC is also a co-chair of the recently relaunched Global Impact Coalition (GIC).

This CEO-led initiative, which includes nine major industry players such as BASF, Covestro, and Siemens Energy, is dedicated to helping the chemical sector achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

SABIC is leading efforts to cultivate partnerships that address the industry's challenges and drive collaborative research and development projects.

One of the first initiatives under GIC focuses on advancing both chemical and mechanical recycling of plastics.

This project aims not only to enhance recycling processes but also to significantly reduce the CO2 footprint associated with plastic production and waste.

The coalition's efforts have the potential to yield substantial results in the transition to a carbon-neutral future, setting a precedent for large-scale environmental change.

SABIC’s climate advocacy extends beyond industry collaborations. In 2023, the company participated in major global forums, including the UN MENA Climate Week and COP 28, as well as the Saudi Green Initiative Forum in Dubai.

These engagements reaffirm SABIC's dedication to supporting both national and international climate action efforts, while also showcasing its initiatives aimed at accelerating progress toward carbon neutrality.

Additionally, in a bid to nurture the next generation of innovators, SABIC has teamed up with PepsiCo, AstroLabs, and other strategic partners to launch the Mega Green Accelerator.

This initiative is designed to empower young innovators to develop solutions that address regional and global sustainability challenges, such as circularity and energy transition.

Through these concerted efforts, SABIC is not only contributing to the global fight against climate change but also leading by example in the chemical industry, demonstrating that sustainable practices and economic growth can go hand in hand.

As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, SABIC's initiatives provide a hopeful pathway toward a more sustainable future.

By Abdulaziz Khattak