1 February 2011 at a reception in Parliament the UK industry programme for the United Nations International Year of Chemistry was launched. The launch, sponsored by chemical company Johnson Matthey, was hosted by the trade body the Chemical Industries Association. 

Speaking at the event, Chemical Industries Association Chief Executive Steve Elliott said, “I am delighted at the cross party support for the International Year of Chemistry, the chemical industry which is the UK’s number one manufacturing exporter is just one of the sectors that relies on skilled scientists and engineers, I hope the series of events we have planned for the IYC helps achieve recognition for the contribution science makes to everyday life and inspire a new generation of students to take a fresh look at science and engineering.”

At the event, chemical company INEOS sponsored a competition for school pupils.  The winners of the competition will be the students who come up with the most original ideas about how science will change their lives in 2050.  For competition details see www.cia.org.uk. 

Joydip Sanyal, Leader of the Chemical Industry Future Forum, said “this competition is a great opportunity for school pupils to think about why science is important to their lives, now and in the future and hopefully inspire people to take up science and engineering”

Contact Name: Fiona Ferguson