Youth debating competition puts plastics industry in the spotlight

A Europe-wide youth debating competition asking students to question a future with and without petrochemicals and plastics has been hailed as a success.

The initiative, which concluded with a winners ceremony in Hungary on October 4, was jointly organised by the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) and PlasticsEurope with the aim of promoting the importance of STEM subjects to school-aged children.

“We launched this initiative to promote STEM education and the importance of science, as education in these fields are crucial for the future of our industry and the overall competitiveness of the European Union,” commented Karl-H Foerster, Executive Director of PlasticsEurope

The ceremony saw the jury announce ten winners from over 500 entrants from across Europe. Awarding the prizes was former President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, who emphasised the crucial role played by students in the industry’s future.

Cathy Demeestere, CEO of EPCA, said she was “profoundly impressed and inspired” by the overall level of maturity and debating skills the participants demonstrated. “Seeing the challenges Europe faces, I am convinced that initiatives like this are crucial and deserve our continued support,” she concluded.