Reasonable Sustainability Requirements

    There is another article in the September 24 issue of C&E News entitled, "Sustaining Business" by Alex Scott. He indicates that industry in general and the chemical industry specifically is struggling to implement a profitable business model in the world of limited resources and increasing environmental risk.
    This problem has obviously existed for some time, but has become increasingly significant for consideration because of somewhat ridiculous self-imposed limitations by customer companies. For example, the airline industry is expecting a complete elimination of carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. A US flooring company expects to eliminate all oil use, emissions and waste at an unspecified date.
    Like anything else, people can develop ridiculous anticipations and goals. However, the chemical industry should continue to adapt to reasonable requirements, while noting obvious limitations. For example it may be possible to use a propulsion system which would eliminate CO2 emissions for airline use,. However, if the cost of such a system is radically higher than present costs, it obviously would not "fly".