Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry

In this episode, host Eric R. Byer is joined by industry leaders from the American Chemistry Council (ACC) and the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) to discuss the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill on chemical distribution and the broader industry. They explore the legislation’s immediate benefits for member companies, how key tax provisions could support growth, investment, and competitiveness, and how the bill reflects long-standing industry priorities for balancing safety and expansion. The conversation also turns to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, examining its potential effects on freight service, competition, and the ability of companies to deliver essential products, as well as the implications of changes at the Surface Transportation Board for a fair review process.

The rules of global trade are changing, and chemical distribution is feeling the impact. Recorded live at ACD's ChemEdge Conference and Trade Show in Louisville, KY, this conversation with industry experts explores how tariffs, trade enforcement, and supply chain disruptions are transforming the landscape. Please note: the information shared reflects the state of trade and the industry as of August 14 and may have evolved since recording.

In this episode, host Eric Byer dives into the profound impact of the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) on the chemical industry. FOSSI, a national program, aims to amplify diversity in the STEM workforce by awarding scholarships to students pursuing STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With a focus on breaking down financial barriers, FOSSI is dedicated to supporting aspiring STEM Scholars who might not otherwise access STEM education. Listen to this episode to explore FOSSI's inception, rapid growth, and unwavering commitment to diversity and education. Join us in uncovering the narratives that position FOSSI as a beacon of hope for future STEM professionals, catalyzing substantial change in the chemical industry's workforce. For more information, visit FutureofStemScholars.org.

Season Two of Chemline kicks off with a major shift from the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) to the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD). The episode draws insights from ACD’s Annual Meeting in Amelia Island, featuring the comprehensive research process behind ACD's new name and identity, the importance of inclusivity for industry growth, the enduring value of Responsible Distribution amid the rebrand, and what this transition means for the organization's future and its members.

In this episode of Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry, host Eric Byer dives deep into the pressing issue of freight rail reform. The episode explores the aftermath of the devastating train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which triggered a controlled release of hazardous materials, evacuations, and environmental damage. Eric discusses the intricate relationship between the chemical industry and rail transportation, shedding light on the challenges faced by shippers due to railroad consolidation and the implementation of precision scheduled railroading (PSR). He interviews industry experts, who provide insights into the deteriorating rail service, communication breakdowns, and the vital role of the Surface Transportation Board's (STB) Railroad Shipper Transportation Advisory Council (RSTAC). The episode also highlights the negative impacts of PSR, such as workforce reduction and extended transit times, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive rail reform to prioritize safety, service, and the well-being of rail employees. Eric concludes with a discussion on ongoing advocacy efforts and the obstacles faced in bringing about meaningful change. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the urgency and importance of freight rail reform for the chemical distribution industry and beyond. Thank you to our guests! -Mathew Brainerd, CEO/Chairman, Brainerd Chemical Co. -Richard Erstad, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, Hawkins, Inc. -Brian Callahan, Senior Director, Legislative Affairs, NACD

In the final installment of this three-part series on fraud within the chemical industry, host Eric Byer highlights the complexities of cyber-attacks and how the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) is successfully implemented to prevent such attacks. With the CFATS expiration date on the horizon (July 27, 2023), Eric and the NACD team urge listeners to advocate for the reauthorization of this vital regulatory program. Thank you to our guests: •Jerry Caponera, General Manager of Risk Products, ThreatConnect •Kelly Murray, Associate Director of Chemical Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) •Doug Leigh, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) Thank you to our episode sponsor, SituationHub! For more information on SituationHub, visit: https://situationhub.com/

In part two of this three-part series on fraud in the chemical industry, host Eric Byer reveals that in the early Spring of 2021, the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) was alerted that a member company had fallen victim to an ongoing fraud scheme that targeted chemical companies hoping to acquire toxic industrial chemicals. Listen to find out how NACD, with the help of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), sprang into action to protect members from these bad actors. Thank you to our guests: •Jennifer Gibson, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) •Kelly Murray, Associate Director of Chemical Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) •Jerry Caponera, General Manager of Risk Products, ThreatConnect •Caroline Brooks, Director of Responsible Distribution, National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) Thank you to our episode sponsor, SituationHub! For more information on SituationHub, visit: https://situationhub.com/

In part one of this three-part series on fraud within the chemical industry, host Eric Byer takes a look at the impact of fraud on the Chemical Sector and what is at stake if hazardous chemicals end up in the wrong hands. Thank you to our guests: • Kelly Murray, Associate Director of Chemical Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) • Jerry Caponera, General Manager of Risk Products, ThreatConnect • Randy Hampton, Executive Vice President and Partner, Axon Underwriting Learn more about NACD: https://www.nacd.com/ Thank you to our episode sponsor, SituationHub! For more information on SituationHub, visit: https://situationhub.com/

In the season 2 finale, host Eric Byer delves into the challenges of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the chemical distribution industry. He begins by tracing the history of PFAS, their widespread use in products like firefighting foam and non-stick cookware, and the reasons behind their prevalence today. Eric is joined by industry experts Mark Siem of Perimeter Solutions and Stephen Kowkabany of The Vertex Companies, LLC. Together, they discuss the key federal and state regulations surrounding PFAS and their impact on chemical distributors, as well as the compliance obligations ACD members need to understand. Mark also shares a 7-step process for transitioning foam systems to address PFAS concerns. As insurance requirements evolve, the panel examines how chemical distributors can adapt to increased scrutiny and what coverage they should consider. The episode concludes with a spotlight on ASK Distribution Consulting’s partnership with Vertex, offering a PFAS audit service to help companies stay compliant and mitigate risks.

In this episode of Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry, host Eric Byer is joined by industry experts to explore the looming threat of a potential port strike set for January 15. As tensions rise between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), the risk of a strike could lead to widespread disruptions at key ports. Eric and guests explore how this action might impact shipping schedules, delays, and the flow of goods across industries. Join us as we break down the potential consequences for businesses, consumers, and the broader economy, and discuss what can be done to prepare for the uncertainty ahead.

In this episode, we feature CITCO Water, a family-owned distributor serving customers in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Recognizing a need in their community, CITCO Water responded with care, resources, and guidance through their initiative, CITCO Plus One. Join us as we delve into the story of how CITCO Water, a proud member of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) since 2014, expanded their core value of being 'Driven to Serve' by establishing CITCO Plus One in 2019, and discover how CITCO Plus One tackled water insecurity, both internationally and within their own backyard in Appalachia, starting with a pivotal project in O’Toole, West Virginia.

In this episode of Chemline, host Eric Byer dives into the repercussions of recent attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Industry experts discuss the challenges confronting the global supply chain, such as heightened shipping delays and increased costs. Despite these challenges, businesses are fine-tuning their supply chain strategies to ensure flexibility and adaptability. Additionally, regulatory authorities are assessing responses to alleviate the impacts of these attacks on maritime trade. Tune in to gain insights into the effects of these events on the American supply chain.

In the final episode of season one, host Eric Byer takes a deep dive into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "Forever Chemicals," and their significant impact on the chemical distribution industry. With expert insights and industry leaders, we explore the uses, implications, and regulations surrounding PFAS. Discover the complexities of defining PFAS, their surprising presence in various products, their role in firefighting, and the challenges faced in regulating these persistent chemicals.

The Superfund was created to finance the cleanup of uncontrolled or abandoned waste sites, accidents, spills, or other emergency releases of pollutants into the environment. The tax expired in 1996 and remained dormant for almost 30 years. In 2021, U.S. Congress unexpectedly resurrected the tax through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), catching taxpayers by surprise. In this episode, host Eric Byer explores the return of the Superfund tax and how it has affected NACD members and the chemical industry as a whole. Thank you to our guests: Douglas Charnas, Tax Attorney, McGlinchey Stafford Lynn Mucenski-Keck, Principal and National Lead of Federal Tax Policy, Withum Aaislinn Chalecki, Regulatory, Quality and Logistics Manager, ChemSynergy Inc. Analisa Puzzanghero, Senior Manager of Regulatory Affairs, National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) Thank you to our episode sponsor, SituationHub! For more information on SituationHub, visit: https://situationhub.com/

Chemicals touch our lives every day, in every way. From wherever you are reading this, you can’t reach out in front of you to touch something that hasn’t been brought to you by chemical production. The paint on our cars, the medications we take, even the municipal water we drink have all been impacted by chemicals. Chemical distributors and their affiliates work hard to keep these chemicals moving; to ensure business can flow seamlessly for the thousands of downstream industries which rely on them; and to provide the millions of products and services for the people who use them. From the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD), this is Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry. Taking you through the obstacles faced by those who keep the chemical distribution industry churning. Each month we’ll hear first-hand from experts on different topics that are affecting the industry.