Recently, the 2014 China Petroleum and Chemical International Conference (CPCIC) opened in Tianjin. This year’s conference invited representatives from government, industry associations, and industry leading companies to discuss the theme, “Global Trends and China Opportunities in the Next Ten Years,” deeply investigating the development prospects for China and the global petrochemical industry over the next ten years.
As a global leader in silicones and silicon-based technology, Dow Corning was represented at the conference by its Greater China President Jeremy Burks. “The continued development of China’s chemical industry should be underpinned by the principles of sustainability,” said Mr. Burks. “As a responsible corporate citizen, promoting the industry’s sustainable development has always been at the core of Dow Corning’s beliefs and values. Our 70-plus years of experience has showed that a key way to realize sustainable development of the chemical industry is to uphold the industry’s strictest standards in environmental, health and safety (EHS), and incorporate Responsible Care® into every step of our products’ lifecycle.
Dow Corning is keen to share these key learnings and best practices to elevate sustainable practices in China’s chemical industry.” Dow Corning joined the Responsible Care initiative in 1989, and in 1997 it implemented the standards throughout its global operations. Today, its EHS program – guided by Responsible Care – delivers high plant reliability and safety for all its employees. In line with Responsible Care, Dow Corning reduces waste, carbon emissions and energy consumption, in a bid to reduce the impact on the environment and lower production costs. Dow Corning’s world-class sites in Zhangjiagang and Songjiang successfully manage the ecological footprint through building integrated facilities and adopting global leading practices.
It also routinely conducts internal EHS audits by Dow Corning specialists from China, U.S. and Europe to ensure full alignment with national and international standards throughout its manufacturing process. To increase the sustainability of the industry, Dow Corning strives to share its know-how and cutting edge sustainable practices. As a member of the Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) and vice chairman of the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation Responsible Care Working Committee, Dow Corning has consistently worked to promote adoption of Responsible Care in China’s chemical industry.
Dow Corning actively partners with various industry associations to share best practices and innovative technology within the industry by organizing exchanges, forums and other programs. In addition, Dow Corning supports local communities through programs such as Fascinating Silicone in Life—Dow Corning Science Day, World Environment Day and many other initiatives. Dow Corning works to increase communication with local communities, educate the public about EHS best practices, and raise environmental awareness, to widely promote the concept of Responsible Care and sustainability in China.