Performance
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Balance can be challenging and exciting. It is crucial to many human
endeavors, from a baby’s first steps, to a young child’s ride on a bicycle, to
a gymnast’s performance on the beam. Balance is crucial for business, too. At
Dow Corning, we are designing for sustainable balance – striving toward
combined social, economic and environmental progress through the work we do
each day.
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‘Designing for sustainable balance’ describes how we apply our deep
commitment to sustainability in the creation of products, processes,
technologies and solutions that meet customer, environmental and societal
needs, exactly. Sometimes, this involves small improvements to existing
products and processes. At other times, it can mean disruptive innovations –
such as Dow Corning’s advancements in energy efficiency and waste reduction –
that will build tomorrow’s opportunities.
Sustainable design requires a blend of innovation and intent. It means
planning with purpose and looking at the big picture – for instance, evaluating
the role and impact of a material throughout a product’s entire lifecycle, not
just during its initial consumer use. It also can involve capturing the power
of nature, as is the case with Dow Corning’s pioneering work with solar
technology.
Beyond products and processes, designing for sustainable balance affects how
we grow as a corporation, driving our expansion into emerging and diverse
geographic markets. The 2007 opening of Dow Corning’s new office in Ho Chi Minh
City, Vietnam, is a good example. Our presence there will help to serve
existing customers in the region and extend the benefits of silicones to new
users and applications.
There is no perfect model to determine the right balance between the factors
of sustainability. However, just as an athlete must remain focused for optimum
performance, we must continuously focus on all three responsibilities –
environmental, social and economic – to keep the balance, and maximize value
for our employees, customers, neighbors and partners.
This report showcases our ongoing commitment to sustainability, which is
aligned with our Values and is at the very core of our company culture. We are
proud of the progress we are making, and realize there are many more
opportunities ahead. Please, join us in celebrating our 2007 successes, and see
how Dow Corning is taking balanced steps toward a sustainable future. Our
journey continues…
Stephanie A. Burns
Chairman, President and CEO