Page 78 - AMEFT Journal 2021-2

MARKET & NEWS
SABIC collaborates with KACST to serve the growing markets
SABIC, a global leader in diversi- fied chemicals, and a material and technology leader in the packaging in- dustry, and KACST- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to develop high performance and lightweight materials for advanced applications.
SABIC Vice Chairman and CEO Yousef Al-Benyan and KACST Presi- dent Dr. Anas Al-Faris signed the JDA in Riyadh on February 10, 2021. “This joint development effort fits strategi- cally with the objectives of Saudi Vi- sion 2030 to promote local industries through collaboration and innovation. These high-performance materials will be developed entirely in Saudi Arabia to serve the Kingdom’s down- stream needs,” said Al-Benyan.
“The technology will help achie- ve sustainability targets by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in trans- portation markets, because of weight reductions with the use of light-
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SABIC and KACST are planning to involve their young scientists, engineers and chemists in the learning and development of competencies for advanced techniques.
weight materials,” he added. “This agreement will allow us to serve the growing market for advanced mate- rials uses in the Kingdom and create enormous opportunities for new and downstream industries,” said Dr. Al-Faris.
“We aim to contribute to enriching the local content, thus supporting the Kingdom's economy and enhancing its competitive position in these in- dustries,” he added.
Making use of the existing capabi- lities and expertise, SABIC and KACST will partner in a multi-year joint re- search program aiming to develop ad- vanced materials.
SABIC and KACST are planning to in- volve their young scientists, engineers and chemists in the learning and de- velopment of competencies for ad- vanced techniques.
When it comes to packaging, SABIC says they have a crucial role to play in tomorrow’s resource challenges. Its products are capable of curbing the waste generated by the global food industry. The challenge is that the consumer expectations are driving brands to create packaging that is su- stainable, distinctively shaped, hygie- nic, easy to open, and with excellent graphics.
(Source: SABIC)
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