Chemical Industry Weekly News Round-Up, August 13

This Week on CW:

A variety of chemical companies saw solid earnings increases, driven by rises in volumes.

Braskem, however, was not among them, as the Brazilian's firms earnings slid with the real. The company also detailed its investment plans for the U.S. and the Americas, though it does not expect to make any U.S. acquisitions for the next three years.

BP's troubles continue, as OSHA has fined the company $50.6 million, a record, for safety violations related to the 2005 refinery accident at Texas City.

Albemarle CFO Richard Diemer has resigned.

Chemtura's previously announced exit financing will include a $450 million bond issue.

Around the Web:

The New York Times takes an interesting look at consumer spending and happiness. The rub? Spend more on experiences, and less on stuff.

A new study has found that biochar – essentially, stirring charcoal into the Earth's soil – can offset up to 12% of global GHG emissions, the New Republic reports.

A report by consulting firm SRIC has found that recycling PET bottles isn't always the best way to reduce their carbon footprint, in Plastics News.