The Environmental Protection Agency's decision to end its "sue-and-settle" practice is expected to save $26 billion annually, according to a report by the American Action Forum. The House is expected to vote this week on amendments to legislation that would turn this EPA policy into law.

Manufacturers that work with diisocyanates can expect to receive new training options, including online options, as part of an alliance between the American Chemistry Council and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Clare Condon writes.

Strong performance in Covestro's foam chemicals unit helped increase third-quarter earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization by 50%. The company also announced it will buy back about 10% of shares, or $1.8 billion worth.

BASF's adjusted third-quarter earnings before interest and tax climbed 16% to about $2.1 billion, while sales increased by 9%. Chemicals sales increased by 25% over the year-ago period.

3M posted third-quarter earnings of $1.4 billion on $8.2 billion in sales, with both figures higher than a year ago. The company saw all five business units increase revenue during the quarter.

The Environmental Protection Agency abandoned proposals to change the Renewable Fuel Standard after an intervention from President Donald Trump. The move is a blow to refiners, which had pressed the agency to ease the compliance burden.

The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee is expected to vote on four Environmental Protection Agency nominations on Wednesday. Last week's vote was postponed amid potential Republican opposition over EPA plans to weaken the Renewable Fuel Standard, which Administrator Scott Pruitt has since said he would not change.

Linde has reduced its required shareholder approval level for its proposed merger with Praxair from 75% to 60% and extended the acceptance period until Nov. 7. If successful, the companies would have a year to obtain regulatory approval.

Croda has begun operations at a $170 million bio-based non-ionic surfactants plant in Delaware. The facility will use 100% renewable feedstocks while also reducing its carbon footprint, said company official Robert Stewart.

PPG Industries posted net income of $392 million on sales of $3.8 billion during the third quarter despite supply chain disruptions and other challenges associated with hurricanes and an earthquake during the period.