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Interview with Rob Portsmouth, Executive Vice President, Sustainability, EHS, and HR, Venator


1.    You are going to be speaking on sustainable innovation in TiO2; given the challenging environment that TiO2 businesses are facing, with many saying it is a case of trying to survive right now, why do you think this topic is important to the audience? 

"Despite the difficult conditions the TiO₂ pigment industry is facing, I believe sustainable innovation remains critically important. Consumers, especially younger generations, are increasingly demanding products with lower environmental impact. While current geopolitical and economic pressures may temporarily shift priorities, the long-term trend toward sustainability is not going away. Many of the changes required to meet future expectations also involve long lead times, so it's essential to take action now."

2.    What is your biggest driver as a business today? 

"Financial sustainability is perhaps one of the most important of all the sustainability drivers.   Like many others in the industry, we are focused on improving financial performance and generating cash. Sustainability can support this goal, as regulatory pressures are increasing operational costs, and many sustainability initiatives can also deliver cost savings."


3.    What do you think will be the biggest challenge for the TiO2 sector in the coming five years?

"Reducing the carbon intensity of TiO₂ pigment products will be a major challenge. This includes lowering emissions from production and cutting energy consumption across the value chain. Addressing this will require innovation, investment, and collaboration across the industry."

4.    What do you see as some of the most interesting developments in the market now? 

"There are several interesting developments. Electrification of processes, the use of hydrogen as an alternative energy source, and the adoption of the mass balance approach all offer potential to reduce the environmental footprint of TiO₂ pigment products."

5.    What are you most looking forward to at the event? 

"I always look forward to hearing about innovative solutions to the challenges businesses face. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with customers and suppliers across the industry, exchange ideas, and gain insights from different perspectives of the value chain."