Today, we once again woke up early to drive an hour and a half to Nouryon. Nouryon is a company that creates chemical compounds used in a variety of markets, ranging from home and self-care to natural resources, mining, and materials. The company was founded in 1883 when two men realized they could use organic peroxides to bleach flour and make white bread. Organic peroxides remain one of Nouryon’s most produced chemicals, aiding in the creation of new materials and being sold to companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Unilever, and Proctor & Gamble. Our connection to Nouryon came through a Pitt alumnus who graduated in 2005 and served as the VP of Marketing and Sales for their Natural Resources division. It was extremely interesting to learn about the business side of a company with such a technical focus.

Nouryon’s sustainability goals demonstrate their commitment to both the Netherlands’ goals and those of the United Nations. Over 25% of Nouryon’s sales in each product class come from sustainably forward chemicals. Nouryon operates multiple carbon-neutral factories globally, utilizing clean and renewable energy from hydroelectric power, wind farms, and solar panels. Furthermore, Nouryon aims to become a completely carbon-neutral company by 2050. It was emphasized that Nouryon ensures its chemicals are used properly by their customers and that exact processes are utilized to ensure both purity and safety. Safety was a key focus; Nouryon proudly stated that they have not had an accident in seven years. This is significant because we witnessed firsthand the potential destruction that the chemicals Nouryon creates and handles can cause. At the safety lab, we observed the burning and reaction of chemicals. Nouryon conducts these tests to ensure the proper pressure and containers are used for their chemicals, and they can do this in both large and small quantities. Large quantities are placed into a massive tank that is then sealed and videotaped. The destruction, sound, and fire produced by these chemicals were truly extraordinary. From a business perspective, the logistical functions and the integrated supply chain are immense, considering the business generates 5 billion in revenue. They have a large distribution hub in Houston and smaller hubs. In the concept-to-consumer process, they conceive groundbreaking chemicals used in sustainability initiatives and inventive industries. These chemicals are then produced after research and development, which primarily occur at the Nouryon facility we toured, and then they are manufactured at a chemical plant and delivered to the consumer.

Another unique aspect of the research and development at Nouryon is its connection to customer satisfaction. Consumers may contact Nouryon about a potential defect in its chemicals or a question about its use. The analytical lab at Nouryon, using advanced spectrometry and extremely powerful magnifying glasses, can determine if there is a pollutant in the chemical or even if there are tiny specks of dirt. This commitment to quality control allows Nouryon to differentiate itself from its competitors because it is the only company that conducts specific kinds of tests.

To end the night, we had the opportunity to meet with some alumni from the University of Pittsburgh who are living and working in Amsterdam. Hearing about their experiences living and working abroad provided great insight into the work culture of Europe and the differences from the U.S. It was also a great opportunity to converse with people who have experience in numerous industries. Tomorrow, we will tour two museums that seem extremely interesting, and sadly, it is our last day in Amsterdam.