250 years strong: The chemistry behind America’s success 

This summer marks a historic milestone as the nation commemorates and celebrates the 250th anniversary of its founding. As Americans reflect on the patriotism, ingenuity, and progress that have shaped the country, it would be remiss to not recognize the pivotal role that chemistry has played in its development. From the materials that built the earliest industries, to the technologies that power our economy and safeguard the ability to compete on a global scale, chemistry continues to power everyday life. 

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) is an advocate for how chemistry has been – and remains – a cornerstone of American innovation, competitiveness, and leadership. As Chris Jahn, ACC president and CEO, has said, “American chemistry has helped turn aspiration into achievement. Our industry is a cornerstone of American strength, backed by the dedication of millions of men and women who make chemistry possible.” Chemistry goes beyond just lab coats and formulas. It is the driving force behind modern life, including clean drinking water, reliable infrastructure, lifesaving medical devices and medicines, affordable products, and materials for technological advancements. 

Image provided by American Chemistry Council

Powering the next 250 years

As America looks to the next 250 years, there will be significant investments in the essential building blocks that turn breakthrough ideas into real-world solutions. Investments will help support advanced manufacturing, along with the rapid expansion of data centers and scaling AI. Chemistry is what makes it possible for these technologies to be more than ideas on paper. “Our industry will continue to drive the breakthroughs – AI, advanced recycling, and more – that keep America competitive, resilient, and prosperous,” added Jahn.  

Turning possibility into reality 

To meet these goals, there is a need for a regulatory environment that empowers advancement and increased domestic production: a predictable, transparent, science-based approach along with improvements to the nation’s primary chemical management regulation—the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Legislation pending in Congress right now could strengthen TSCA by reducing delays, increasing certainty, spurring American production, and boosting U.S. manufacturing. Immediate effects of these changes will mean stronger supply chains, more jobs, and enhanced national security. 

The current administration’s recent policies have been fundamental in the strengthening of domestic manufacturing, as well as investments in research and development that allow America to be competitive in the global markets. Now Congress can help advance this trajectory by passing legislation to fix TSCA.

Image provided by American Chemistry Council

What lies ahead

Americans want affordability, reliability, and confidence in our nation’s strength. According to ACC, 72% of Americans agree that expanding chemical production will drive job creation, capital spending, and investments in R&D. The long-term outlook for chemistry is strong. As the country enters its next 250 years, U.S. chemical manufacturers will continue to power the breakthroughs that keep it resilient, competitive, and a global leader. 

Our success has always relied on chemistry – it builds and strengthens America. Join the celebration and honor chemistry’s role in shaping the nation’s founding, development, and future by calling your representative to urge them to pass critical TSCA legislation and by signing the ACC birthday card to America.