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And another promising new technology evolves from the field of molecular biology, the use of genetically engineered enzymes to catalyze chemical reactions. The possibility exists that more environmentally friendly production methods can be developed, using less dangerous and toxic chemicals.
All of these technologies, and numerous others yet to be discovered, will require the education and training of many more scientists and engineers. Knowledge and technology are the keys to the solution of the problems in manufacturing today.
I believe that the problems associated with the use of plastics today will be addressed in appropriate ways. As the engineers of yesterday have found solutions to the need for more and better materials and ways to use them, so will the engineers of tomorrow find solutions to the new problems created in solving old problems. The environmental issues surrounding plastics should not be viewed as a condemnation of technology, but instead should serve as the foundation for new goals for the new generation of engineers. I have faith in the concept that tomorrow's engineers, armed with the lessons and the knowledge of the past, will continue to improve our lives with new and better synthetic materials, and processes for making them.
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