In a significant collaboration, the SGC Chemical Industries and Sustainability Committees hosted a webinar centred around the crucial topic of "Decarbonisation of Jurong Island." This virtual event, held on 29 August 2023, marked an essential step forward in envisioning a sustainable and eco-friendly future for the industrial landscape. Industry leaders and SGC members, Siemens and Evonik, took the virtual stage as guest speakers, sharing their insights into the innovative strides they have made in the journey to decarbonise Jurong Island.
Siemens was represented by Prof Stefan Niessen, Mr Max Pfeifer, and Mr Ronnie Gan. Their presentations illuminated a transformative path toward turning Jurong Island into a sustainable park. Central to their vision is the pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions from the outset, made feasible through the integration of cutting-edge digital energy twin technology within the planning process.
Mr Kevin Kennedy from Evonik articulated a compelling narrative of their company's ongoing endeavours to curb carbon emissions while simultaneously safeguarding natural resources. Among the strategies employed by Evonik are innovations such as Carbon Capture, a process that reclaims carbon dioxide as a byproduct from Steam Methane Reformers. Another standout initiative involves utilising seawater for primary cooling, a design choice that significantly diminishes the need for freshwater consumption. Anchored by a firm commitment, Evonik has set a target of reducing CO2 emissions by 25% by the year 2030, amounting to a S$100 million in annual savings.
The webinar garnered substantial attention, drawing an audience of 80 participants. This resounding success would not have been possible without the supporting partners, including the Association of Process Industry (ASPRI), Enterprise Singapore (ESG), Singapore Business Federation (SBF), Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited (SCIC), Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS), Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), and Singapore Precision Engineering & Technology Association (SPETA). The SGC extends its heartfelt gratitude to all of them.