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How climate change is altering speciality chemicals

20 February 2025
A small-world photo of a factory by a river with smoke billowing out of its chimneys, depicting climate change.

Speciality chemicals form the foundation of many local sectors, including agriculture, construction, healthcare, and mining. South Africa’s chemical sector plays an important role in economic growth and job creation. However, the growing impact of climate change is transforming the face of the chemical sector, prompting the development of new and improved solutions.

Gold Reef Speciality Chemicals produces various high-performance, bespoke chemicals for several industries in South Africa. Our commitment to world-class chemicals is complemented by our unique speciality services that help us guarantee the ideal products for your company amid climate change. We place an emphasis on R&D to ensure our products meet your needs and function as intended.

A green tuft of grass growing out of a dry and cracked clay bed

The impact of climate change on the chemical industry

Like in most other sectors, the shifting weather patterns and environmental change are creating various new issues. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing rainfall patterns mean that industries have to adapt to survive. These changes have far-reaching consequences for the chemical sector too.

As climate change creates problems such as drought, flooding, and pest infestations, there is an increasing need for chemicals that can help reduce their consequences – especially in the agricultural sector, where local crops are prone to environmental change. Drought-tolerant crop protection chemicals and water-efficient industrial chemicals are two examples.

Climate-related events, such as natural catastrophes, have the potential to disrupt supply chains in several sectors, resulting in raw material shortages and higher costs. This means that chemical production can be affected by import delays. Local speciality chemical manufacturers are finding ways to create effective products without relying too heavily on imports.

In addition, governments around the world are enacting stronger environmental restrictions to combat climate change. Chemical manufacturers must adapt to the new requirements to remain compliant and maintain market access. These regulations have an overall positive impact on the planet, so compliance is an important factor when looking for a reputable chemical supplier.

An agricultural sprinkler system spraying a large crop.

Gold Reef is adapting to customers’ needs

Gold Reef is adapting to the changing needs of our clients. The problems brought by climate change are creating shifts in the chemical solutions they require. We are devoted to providing innovative solutions that address the changing demands of our customers and the environment.

We are working on developing climate-resilient products. By investing in research and development (R&D), we can learn about creating chemicals that can resist extreme weather and help customers mitigate the effects of climate change. Our R&D process is an important part of our business as it allows us to create the best chemicals for your needs, based on scientific investigation and a thorough quality control process.

We also strive to optimise our processes to lower our carbon footprint and waste. To do this, we use energy-saving technologies and sustainable practices. We cooperate with industry professionals, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to identify emerging trends and solve climate-related concerns for our clients.

The chemical sector is pivotal in tackling the issues posed by the environment. We can develop ways to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future by embracing innovation and sustainable habits. Gold Reef remains committed to being a part of the solution. For more information about our products and services, please get in touch with us today.

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Gold Reef is a leading manufacturer of speciality chemicals for various industries. We fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact info@gold-reef.co.za or phone +27 31 910 7500. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.