Midland, Mich.-based Dow Building Solutions, a global business unit of DowDuPont Specialty Products division, is partnering with the U.S. Green Building Council to deliver solutions that contribute to building more sustainable communities and cities. The goal of the collaboration is to measurably reduce greenhouse gas emissions through improved energy efficiency in buildings.
A 2016 report from the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction states that buildings are currently responsible for about one-third of global energy consumption, about 30 percent of global energy-related CO2 emissions and 20 percent of total CO2 emissions. In an effort to reduce these emissions, Dow and USGBC will collectively advise two cities or communities to help in achieving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement used in more than 167 countries.
Dow, a Worldwide Partner and Official Chemistry Company of the Olympic Movement and the Official Carbon Partner of the International Olympic Committee, is seeking to develop carbon mitigation projects in the built environment. The projects aim to balance the IOC’s operational carbon footprint while demonstrating environmental leadership on a global level. Each project will help drive the adoption of low-carbon innovations and provide third party verified greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
“Many communities around the world understand the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are looking for ways to achieve this strategy,” said Greg Bergtold, Dow director of advocacy. “This partnership will offer expertise from Dow and USGBC that will not only directly help selected communities reduce their carbon footprint, but will also pave the way for other communities to do the same.”
Mahesh Ramanujam, CEO at USGBC, said: “As USGBC aims to accelerate sustainable, healthy and resilient communities, cities and cultures globally, we seek to create partnerships with those that can help address the unique needs of the local community. By working with Dow, we can extend the reach of the green building marketplace. Together we can create real progress with lasting benefits to the environment and society at large.”
As part of its 2025 Sustainability Goals, Dow seeks to strengthen its relationships with organizations such as USGBC that can help lead the transition to a cleaner and greener planet and society.