Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a complex challenge Dow is determined to not only meet, but also to lead in our industry. We are continuously finding ways to reduce emissions from our operations as well as investing in new technologies and processes to decarbonize our industry.
Learn how we make the world a better place as Team Dow. Through respect and integrity, we lead with our core values and innovative spirit to create more sustainable materials science solutions for everyone.
Discover how we’re accelerating positive change around the world. From climate protection and creating safer materials to our focus on global citizenship and inclusion, diversity and equity, Team Dow is making a difference in the communities where we live and work.
Find the latest press releases, news updates, awards and achievements from Dow and stay connected on the impact we’re making in the world.
Explore key collaborations and why we make partnership our passion. Through initiatives and sponsorships, we can work together to create a more positive impact for all.
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Decarbonization and Climate Mitigation
Navigating the climate and energy transition
Innovating
We must lead our industry in delivering materials science innovations that drive the world’s transition to a low emissions future.
Leading by example
We are continuously finding ways to reduce emissions while helping our customers reduce their emissions with innovative, lower-emission products.
Investing
We are investing $1 billion per year on average across the economic cycle to drive growth and decarbonization of our manufacturing assets.
Enabling a just transition
Dow recognizes the environmental justice movement as an opportunity to ensure we are appropriately including our communities as we progress through the climate and energy transition.
OUR CLIMATE TARGETS
Roadmap to 2050
We are taking a comprehensive and phased approach to reducing GHG emissions, including short-, medium- and long-term reduction targets and actions to achieve them.
Previous Reductions
- Reduced our GHG emissions by 15% between 2005-2020
Near Term
- By 2025, we intend to reduce our net annual emissions by 2 million metric tons versus our 2020 baseline
Mid Term
- By 2030, we will reduce our net annual carbon emissions by 5 million metric tons versus our 2020 baseline (~15% reduction)
Long Term
- By 2050, we intend to be carbon neutral (Scopes 1+2+3 plus product benefits)
Leading climate protection by example: our approach
To achieve our “Protect the Climate” targets, we are embarking on a plan that encompasses all three carbon emissions Scopes:
Scope 1
Emissions directly under our control from our own operations.
Scope 2
Emissions caused indirectly from the generation of the power we purchase from 3rd parties.
Scope 3
Emissions we are indirectly responsible for, upstream from the products or services we buy from suppliers, and downstream from the transportation, usage and end of life of our sold products.
Our strategy to Decarbonize and Grow
Through 2050, we will take a phased, site-by-site approach to reducing our GHG emissions footprint. This includes investing approximately $1 billion per year, on average across the economic cycle, to drive both earnings growth and decarbonization of our manufacturing assets. We will replace end-of-life and less efficient assets with technologies to abate GHG emissions, such as hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and advanced nuclear, among others.
As we decarbonize, we also have a clear path to earnings growth. We remain on track to deliver $3 billion in underlying EBITDA improvements, as we reduce Scope 1 and 2 net annual GHG emissions by 5 million metric tons versus our 2020 baseline by 2030.
Executing our Decarbonize and Grow strategy
Optimizing our Manufacturing Facilities and Processes for Sustainability
Replace end-of-life assets with low GHG tech
Pursue manufacturing efficiency improvements
Recent developments:
- Achieved Final Investment Decision and started construction on world’s first net-zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions ethylene cracker and derivatives site
- Prioritized projects at Dow’s largest sites to pursue efficiency opportunities
Investing in Transformative Next-Gen Manufacturing Technology
Develop next-generation, low-carbon manufacturing technology critical for the future
Recent developments:
- Continued collaboration with Shell on e-cracking tech development
- Started operation of our UNIFINITY™ FCDh technology in a LA cracker to produce propylene with ~20% lower emissions versus conventional PDH
- Continued development of EDH tech for ethylene
Building a Value-Generating Scope 3 Decarbonization Pathway
Work with value chain to track Scope 3 emissions and identify reduction opportunities
Recent developments:
- Achieved an “A” Supplier Engagement Rating for 3rd straight year by CDP
- Continued to improve accuracy of data from both Dow and suppliers
- Include sustainability criteria into account in purchasing decisions
Developing Low GHG Emissions Products and Services
Design products with lower embedded GHG emissions and/or improve energy/ emissions efficiency
Recent developments:
- Introduced novel cross-linked polyethylene solution for high-voltage transmission cable applications
- Launched two caustic soda products with up to 90% lower greenhouse gas emissions, powered by renewable energy
- Introduced surfactant to help customers meet their formulation sustainability goals by harnessing innovative carbon capture technology for the home care market
Increasing Use of Clean Energy and Steam
Integrate clean energy including renewables and nuclear for power and steam
Advocate and collaborate for infrastructure development (CCS, H2, etc.)
Recent developments:
- Selected Seadrift, TX site for safe, reliable and emissions free advanced SMR nuclear energy project
- Secured access to >1000 MW of renewable power for Dow’s sites
- Advanced designs and partnerships to enable circular hydrogen and CCUS in Fort Saskatchewan Path2Zero site
Dow continues to make progress on its Decarbonize and Grow strategy and remains on track to meet both our 2030 and 2050 targets.
World’s first net-zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions ethylene cracker and derivatives site
Collaborating with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a world-scale carbonate solvents facility
Generating safe, reliable, zero carbon emissions power and steam via advanced small modular nuclear technology
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Supporting our customers through the climate and energy transition
Dow has the responsibility and opportunity to step forward when our innovation can make a difference. We can imagine better ways to solve challenges related to climate change and to support our customers on their own journeys. Dow is taking decisive action to transition to a more sustainable future, and this article is designed to provide our partners with a deeper look at our planned Path to Zero.
