From clothing to cars, from cellphones to cosmetics, living in the 21st century means living in an environment largely made from hydrocarbon-derived chemicals. Saudi Arabia, already a major world player in commodity chemicals like plastics, polymers and resins, is increasingly looking to establish a similar presence in the upper reaches of the value chain, combining major capital investment and serious brainpower to develop new formulations that enable products that are lighter and stronger, with enhanced functionality and aesthetic adaptability. Products which, with the circular economy swiftly turning from snappy catchphrase to business imperative, are also more sustainable.