Dow accepts the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) conclusion that it is very likely that human activities are causing global warming. Left unchecked, the increase in GHGs poses a significant hazard, and the world's response must be comprehensive, far ranging, and expeditious. We recognize the serious nature of the threat and it warrants bold action with clear, long-term performance objectives.
In the long term, innovation in the technologies of renewable and alternative energy will play a significant role in meeting the world’s energy needs and will have a positive impact on climate change. However, those that implement alternative and renewable energy sources must be accountable to demonstrate the economic and ecological sustainability of those solutions across their life cycle.
Traditional fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, and coal) will remain critical to meeting energy and feedstock needs until new technologies can substitute into the existing mix. Efficient use of these limited resources with an emphasis on carbon management must be a strong component of any climate change strategy.
The long-range nature of the climate change issue requires different solutions over successive timeframes. The effect of climate change is global and will require immediate action by all major GHG emitting industry sectors and countries. A global climate change strategy calls for sharp, firm, and direct action now to dramatically slow, stop, and then reverse the growth of greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere. Delivering the world to future generations in a viable state is a moral responsibility for all of us.
Dow supports the concept of multiple solutions among multiple wedges, as
outlined by Princeton Professors Socolow and Pacala in their article, "A Plan to
Keep Carbon in Check", which appeared in the September 2006
issue of Scientific American. Please enjoy access to the article courtesy of
Dow. You may also visit Princeton's website, the Carbon Mitigation Institute,
to learn more and download teaching aids.
