The public certainly knows ExxonMobil for our fuels production business that provides reliable critical fuels for mobility of people and goods. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also important to know that ExxonMobil’s Chemical Company plays an important role in providing essential elements in the production of critical equipment to protect the health of the public and medical care providers. We’re a leading producer of isopropyl alcohol, which is used to create a range of goods, including hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol and other sanitization products. Another vital product our Chemical Company produces is polypropylene, which is required for surgical masks and gowns, such as the N95 protective masks.
And speaking of polypropylene, on April 2, we announced a partnership with the Global Center for Medical Innovation to rapidly design and deploy reusable personal protection equipment for health care workers. ExxonMobil will provide technical expertise and supply polypropylene to manufacture new reusable face masks to help alleviate supply shortages for face shields and masks.
Until a pipeline alternative becomes available, ExxonMobil is pursuing the temporary use of crude
transport trucks that would allow for a phased restart of the Santa Ynez Unit (SYU).
WHY IS RESTART IMPORTANT?
A phased restart of the Santa Ynez Unit would bring jobs and revenue back to Santa Barbara County.