Sustainable Development and Dow
Introduced by the multi-national Brundtland Commission in 1987, Sustainable Development is defined as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” At Dow, we believe that our success hinges on our ability to operate in a rapidly changing world economy and to earn the respect and admiration of all our constituents - our owners and investors, our customers, our employees and our communities. The economic, social, and environmental components of sustainability are the essence of what we must accomplish. We believe these three components are not at all in conflict with one another. To be ultimately successful, we must simultaneously succeed in all three elements of sustainable development. Understanding the life cycle of our new and existing products is essential.
Carpet Industry and Carpet Sustainability
Recycle and sustainability of carpet are industry issues that merit the systematic assessment consistent with the Sustainable Development framework. As a leader within the carpet industry, Dow polyurethanes raw materials are used by carpet mills and commission finishers in the production of manufactured carpet products. Dow supports its mill licensees directly and through participation with the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). Currently, the groundwork is being laid by the CRI to understand the long-term value and environmental impact of 
discarded carpeting. According to Werner Braun, CRI president, “… consumers are not the only ones who will benefit. By taking this proactive approach, the carpet industry gains the flexibility to develop its own strategies for meeting government standards—a move that will help companies maintain their competitive edge. This is the next logical step for the carpet industry, which is already viewed as a model in terms of environmental stewardship.” Dow’s corporate policies on Sustainable Development, as well as the industry recommendations resulting from the CRI effort, have formed the basis for Dow’s carpet backing sustainability program.
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