Dow Announces New Technology for STYROFOAM(TM) Insulation
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Proprietary Foaming Agent Eliminates Ozone-Depleting Compounds and Cuts Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Half
Midland, MI - December 05, 2007
Dow Building Solutions announced today that it has developed a next-generation foaming agent technology that will allow it to manufacture STYROFOAM(TM) R5/inch insulation with a zero ozone-depletion factor and cut its greenhouse gas emissions in half for North America.
The proprietary formulation substitutes the hydrochloro-fluorocarbon (HCFC) 142b, an ozone-depleting compound that US and Canadian regulations under the Montreal Protocol require be phased out by January 1, 2010 in North America, with a non-ozone depleting compound. It enables Dow's North American customers to continue receiving STYROFOAM insulation with the same product performance and cost-leadership position, and reflects Dow's commitment, as part of its 2015 Sustainability Goals for Addressing Climate Change, to significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
"Our STYROFOAM brand is one of the most trusted and recognized brands in the building and construction industry, and our investment in developing a replacement foaming agent technology reflects our commitment to our customers, the industry, and the brand," said Torsten Kraef, Dow Building Solutions president and general manager."By developing this solution well-ahead of North American compliance deadlines, we can assure our customers of an uninterrupted supply of STYROFOAM R5/inch insulation, and continue to grow our flagship STYROFOAM brand franchise."
Technology Conversion Underway
Dow has begun conversion to the next-generation foaming agent at North American STYROFOAM(TM) production facilities, investing in new technology, new capacity and optimizing its overall grid for sustainability. In particular, the Company is upgrading production capability for most of its existing production sites, opening a new facility in LaPorte, TX, expanding its facility in Varennes, Quebec, and consolidating production in some areas.
The conversion process and asset reconfiguration are the latest in a series of moves Dow Building Solutions has undertaken to invest for strategic growth in its portfolio.
"Dow continually evaluates its business portfolio and investment opportunities to enable strategic growth," said Kraef."Our development of next-generation foaming agent technology for North America- well in advance of Montreal Protocol and US EPA Guidelines- underscores Dow's commitment to serve customers with insulation solutions in an industry that will continue to see significant focus on increasing energy efficiency and protecting our environment."
About Dow STYROFOAM
Recognized by its distinctive Blue(TM) color, STYROFOAM(TM) Brand Insulation helps provide year-round comfort and energy savings through its excellent water resistance, high insulation value and superb compressive strength. Available in a wide variety of sizes and thickness, it can be found in almost any insulating application, from rooftops to basements/foundations and all areas in between.
About Dow
Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $49 billion and employs 43,000 people worldwide. References to"Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.
For Editorial Information:
Rebecca Bentley
The Dow Chemical Company
+1 989 638-8568
Elizabeth McDonnell
Gibbs & Soell, Inc.
+1 212 697-2600 ext. 1247
