Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil visited the Wesseling site

Thomas Wessel, Chief Human Resources Officer and Labor Director at Evonik, Chemical Park Manager Dr. Arndt Selbach, and Gerd Schlengermann, Chairman of the Works Council at the site, were expert discussion partners for Klingbeil and district administrator candidate Iris Heinisch (SPD). The chemical industry faces major challenges such as high energy and production costs, regulatory requirements, and increasing global competition overall. “Industry is not just about technology and machines. It is the backbone of our society. Anyone who jeopardizes it puts innovation and sustainable growth at risk—and with it the future viability of our country,” said Thomas Wessel during the visit.

Lars Klingbeil emphasized that he is fighting for every industrial job in this country so that Germany remains an attractive and competitive location. “That's why we have started to lower energy prices, are investing heavily in our infrastructure, and are reducing bureaucracy,” said Klingbeil. The growth booster has created strong investment incentives for companies, thereby improving the framework conditions in very concrete terms so that companies like Evonik have good prospects and “Made in Germany” remains a global flagship. “However, we must not slacken our efforts. The fight for jobs and a strong economy must remain the absolute priority of the federal government,” he made clear.

The Wesseling site is home to the world's largest production facility for precipitated silica, as well as research and application technology for tire and rubber products. Silica is a key component in tires. The product can reduce energy consumption by up to eight percent compared to conventional passenger car tires and extend the range of electric vehicles.

During a tour of the application technology department, head Dr. Roland Krafczyk demonstrated to the delegation how different rubber compounds can be produced efficiently. Lars Klingbeil took the opportunity to talk to employees personally and get an impression of their everyday work. Krafczyk also presented how automated tests are used to check the performance of Evonik products in application technology in order to derive real conditions on the road. The visitors were impressed by the effect of silica/silane technology, which reduces rolling resistance while increasing the tire's grip in wet conditions. The demand for more environmentally friendly tires with reduced rolling resistance is growing, particularly in connection with increasing electromobility. Silica is also used in toothpaste, printing inks, and adhesives, among other things.

“Wesseling is the heart of our silica activities. Here, we combine production, research, and application technology in one place—this is unique and a real location advantage. At the same time, we are a reliable employer and partner in the region,” emphasized Chemical Park Director Selbach.

Klingbeil expressed his gratitude for the productive exchange and the fascinating insights: “At its Wesseling site, Evonik demonstrates how innovative industry can create secure jobs locally and strengthen the region. With its research and application technology, the plant is an example of how economic strength, good working conditions, and employee participation go hand in hand.”