Dow closes systems: 550 jobs lost in Central Germany!

Dow closes systems: 550 jobs lost in Central Germany!

In the industry between Bitterfeld, Böhlen and the Buna Works, it is bubbling: Dow Chemical plans to close several workshops, which are of considerable importance for the region. According to a report by world Chemical triangle, one of the oldest industrial metropolitan areas in Germany, is not easy. The affected systems produce chloral lime and vinyl in Schkopau and raw gasoline in Böhlen. This leads to a severe loss of 550 jobs.

Above all, the high energy costs and strict environmental requirements are caused by the chemical industry, which was previously considered a cornerstone for prosperity and quality of life in the GDR. In her book "Flugasche", Monika Maron impressively describes the living conditions in Bitterfeld, which are shaped by pollution. Her work was not welcome in the GDR and was therefore banned as "black painting".

a heir built over decades

The Central German chemical triangle includes a variety of important cities, including Halle (Saale), Merseburg, Bitterfeld, Leipzig and Schkeuditz. This area, often referred to as a chemical triangle Leuna-Buna-Bitterfeld, is famous for its chemical and oil refineries. Historically, the region has a long tradition in the chemical industry.

buna, a term that refers to the first synthetic rubber, plays a major role in industry in Schkopau. Today is produced there by Dow Chemical synthetic rubber, markets under the name Buna SB. In the 1950s, the advertising slogan "Plaste and Elasten from Schkopau" made large waves and was advertised with a lot of Brimborium in the region. The light advertising on the tower on the northern bridge of the Elbe near Vockerode, which attracted many travelers and sprayed a nostalgic flair, was particularly striking.

The future of the chemical industry

The chemical industry is not only a key engine for innovations, but also an important industry in Germany. According to Statista , the German chemical-pharmaceutical industry is the largest in Europe and is third worldwide, behind China and the USA. In 2023, the export value of chemical-pharmaceutical products was over 257 billion euros. But despite its success, the industry has to master challenges. Rising energy prices, especially as a result of the Russia Ukraine War, bring up producer prices in Europe.

In order to remain future -oriented, companies are increasingly relying on innovations, sustainable technologies and strategic partnerships. Green hydrogen and bio -based chemicals become more important, while the entire industry is changing and more oriented towards Asia.