This year’s moderator over the two days of the 2nd GPCA Sustainability Conference is John Pearson.

On the sidelines of the conference, he spoke to Arab News on the situation and the future of sustainability in the Middle East.

Pearson is the CEO of Chemical Industry Roundtables, LLC.

Excerpts:

Q: From an international perspective how do you evaluate the sustainability status in the Middle East?

A: The efforts and development in the region has been tremendous in the last few years. The number of companies who have committed to the process is increasing steadily, which is a good sign of commitment. This will lead to more combined results that will have a positive impact in the region at various levels — society, culture, environment, etc.

Q: Is this enough work for achieving sustainability?

A: The process itself binds participating companies to a number of rules they have to follow, operate and interact with a lot of details involved. This process will open the door and lead to changes within the sectors involved – the economy, people, politics and environment.

Q: In your opinion what is the major challenge facing the GCC?

A: The region has done a great job - it is a young region in the industry — with regards to sustainability. Yes, it is great that this small part of the world is increasing in importance on various levels. But that should not stop the required development process. Challenges facing the region are minor compared to challenges in the United States or Europe. The region has the potential — young population and a functional industry hat can create the change needed. In this process it is important that we preserve what we have and develop without harming future generations.

Q: How will you measure the success of this conference?

A: I will measure it by the number of questions and heat of discussions. Such conferences are platforms for participants to exchange views, learn from each other’s practices and find structures for cooperation. It’s the level of interest!