Shale Gas Revolution: An Opportunity for the Production of Biobased Chemicals?

Abstract

The current shale gas revolution is causing much excitement because it is leading to job creation, economic growth, and projected energy independence. Yet, at the same time, it causes concerns about the environmental impact, industrial competitiveness, and the resulting geopolitical changes. In the Netherlands and elsewhere, the topic features prominently in the media and political discussions, with pros and cons being extensively debated. Most of those involved do agree on one thing: the potential of the large-scale exploration of shale gas, and of related resources, such as shale and tight oil, to become a game changer for the chemical industry. Indeed, companies are rapidly adjusting to the change in energy flows, trying to take advantage of the cheap resources that now flow abundantly, at least in certain places on earth.