In response to growing awareness of environmental imperatives, businesses across Asia-Pacific’s Energy and Chemical (E&C) industry have been ramping up their transformation and sustainability initiatives. However, the significance of these efforts goes further than simply improving the environment. It also garners interest from Millennial and Gen Z chemical supply chain/procurement professionals, many of whom actively seek out employers that commit to sustainability goals.
Initiatives in Singapore
Jurong Island sits at the heart of E&C activities in Singapore. As a regional hub, its industrial infrastructure supports more than 100 companies with a total value of around S$50 billion. As this sector continues to grow, the industry’s appetite for talent means that companies must now take seriously the prospect of talent shortages moving forward.
In particular, speciality chemicals formulations manufacturing has provided employment opportunities for seasoned professionals. Operations of this type use modernised processes through the Energy & Chemicals Industry Transformation Map (ITM), and are also associated with carbon services and trade. Each of these tasks requires industry expertise to carry out, and government initiatives such as the SkillsFuture Earn and Learn Programme help prepare prospective employees for the challenges they will face.
Still, the road to growth has proven to be a bumpy one in recent years. The pandemic, supply chain issues, and a range of geopolitical factors have forced several plants to cease operations.
A feasible long-term solution for current challenges will require a blend of targeted government initiatives and sustainable biochemical manufacturing. Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) plans to transform Jurong Island into a sustainable chemicals and energy park. The EDB is also developing a Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) test facility in cooperation with A*STAR and JTC, to help companies establish decarbonisation and other sustainability solutions.
Modernisation
A number of improvements are needed to minimise the E&C industry’s energy usage while maximising its efficiency. Limited access to raw materials, together with underlying environmental issues, have necessitated extensive R&D to help navigate these problems moving forward.
Advancements in digital technology have greatly helped solve issues related to the security, reliability, and accuracy of operations. Pairing these technological enhancements alongside more niche tools developed for the E&C industry has proven to be very effective thus far, as this approach lets operators use automated data processing to prevent errors while also optimising industrial activity.
Young candidates focus on making a difference
As E&C companies compete with each other for talent, brand identity could make all the difference in the eyes of Millennial and Gen Z candidates. These generations in particular tend to prioritise employers who share their commitments to social equality and the environment.
Corporations will need to demonstrate these commitments by following through on genuinely progressive ideals. Such efforts will help develop loyalty among current and future employees, facilitating access to the talent they need to grow.
Such a strategy may pose a challenge for E&C companies, particularly if they have yet to develop a well-designed plan. Our recruitment agency in Bangkok, Singapore, and London can show you the way forward. Contact us today to get started.
