146 INTERVIEW in real time. Methanol distributer Methanex, for example, uses real-time process data through CONNECT and Azure AI to power an operations assistant that provides generative AI capabilities for both troubleshooting and forecasting. What role do you see AI playing in driving sustainability and innovation in the chemical sector? Operationally, the previous examples highlight the capability for performance optimisation. As companies protect their assets and minimise failures, it reduces rogue emissions. And, as less waste is produced and less energy used, rework and overall emissions also drop. Today, companies are looking for those new routes and next-level processes to build more sustainable operations that can achieve net-zero targets. AI modelling is used to design new molecules with lower carbon footprints. Other models and simulations are taking these new designs to commercial scale. Sustainability is a growing priority in the chemical sector. How are AVEVA and Microsoft helping customers meet environmental, social and governance goals through AI and digital transformation? Both AVEVA and Microsoft are committed to supporting their customers throughout their respective sustainability journeys. We enable the customer transformation via everything from reactive firefighting to condition monitoring, predictive problem solving, and engaging information and subject matter expertise across the enterprise. Powered by cloud infrastructure and AI analytics, these solutions are available at scale, empowering insight from shop floor to the top floor. As the chemical industry continues to evolve, the collaboration between AVEVA and Microsoft demonstrates how strategic partnerships and advanced technologies can drive meaningful change. With AI at the core, companies are not only solving today’s challenges but also preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. Looking ahead, what trends or technologies should chemical companies be paying attention to in the next two to three years? Expect greater automation and a move to autonomous operations – however, people will continue to be a driving force for safety and performance in the chemical industry. As margins of error grow tighter, the need for energy and cost efficiency is critical to the existence of these plants. AI currently plays an advisory role in these decisions. As technology improves, look to close that loop and enable AI to begin optimising in real time. Discover how Methanex used AI to drive smarter, faster decisions across global operations: bit.ly/46whwU2 Methanex uses CONNECT and Microsoft Azure AI to power a generative AI assistant designed to predict and resolve operational issues Photo: Methanex Corporation
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