The Brazoria County Petrochemical Council (BCPC) recently brought industry leaders, community members and local organizations together for its annual Responsible Care event at the Lake Jackson Civic Center. The gathering celebrated the petrochemical industry’s ongoing commitment to safety, sustainability and community partnership—while also highlighting its enormous economic impact on both Texas and the nation.
Scott Daigle, Vice President and Site Director for MEGlobal Americas Inc. and BCPC’s Community Outreach Vice President, opened the event with a look back at the Council’s recent accomplishments. From a successful Signing Day that connected students with future careers to a county-wide safety seminar, his remarks underscored how BCPC companies are investing in the next generation and the wellbeing of local communities.
The keynote address was delivered by Martha Gilchrist Moore, Chief Economist and Managing Director of Economics and Statistics at the American Chemistry Council (ACC). In her presentation, “Outlook for the U.S. Economy, End-Use Markets & Chemicals,” Moore emphasized both the critical importance of safety and the expanding role of sustainability in the chemical sector. She also highlighted the scale of the industry’s economic impact stating that chemistry supports more than 25% of the U.S. gross domestic product.
Chemistry also makes up 9% of all U.S. goods exports and drives job creation across the country. Texas stands as the nation’s leader in chemistry production, supporting 74,380 direct jobs and more than 302,000 related positions. With an industry average wage of $137,700—46% higher than the state’s manufacturing average wage -the petrochemical industry not only fuels innovation and economic growth but also creates lasting opportunities for families and communities.
The Responsible Care event also showcased BCPC’s strong ties to the community. Two local nonprofits, Kidz Harbor and Communities in Schools, were honored for the impact they make in Brazoria County. Each received a $1,000 grant from the Council and attendees worked together to assemble more than 750 hygiene kits to support families served by the organizations.
From economic strength to commitment to the community, the Responsible Care event captured how the petrochemical industry continues to shape Brazoria County. By prioritizing safety, advancing sustainability and investing in people, BCPC members are ensuring the benefits of chemistry extend well beyond the plants and facilities—reaching into classrooms and neighborhoods all across the globe.
