Dec 7 2007
Dow Building Solutions announced today that it has developed a next-generation foaming agent technology that will allow it to manufacture STYROFOAM™ 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™ 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.”