BY the time this column is published in The Manila Times, I have returned back to the Philippines. Together with journalists from India, Indonesia and Singapore, I spent almost a week in Baku, Azerbaijan, which will host this year's UN Climate Change Conference in November 2024.One of the interesting places we visited was the House Museum of the Nobel Brothers called Villa Petrolea in the historical district of Keshla municipality of Baku, Azerbaijan.
Ludwig initially followed in his father's footsteps by working in the family business, which was involved in the manufacture of military equipment. The Nobel family business produced naval mines and other armaments, which were crucial during the Crimean War. However, after a series of financial setbacks, the family business faced bankruptcy.In the 1870s, Ludwig Nobel shifted his focus to the emerging oil industry in the Caucasus region, particularly in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Ludwig Nobel's contributions to the oil industry had a profound and lasting impact. His innovations in oil transport and refining set new standards in the industry and laid the groundwork for the modern petroleum sector. Branobel remained a major player in the global oil market well into the 20th century.Ludwig's commitment to social responsibility and worker welfare set a precedent for future industrialists, highlighting the importance of ethical business practices.