Emissions

    
  
 

Chemical Emissions
Michigan Operations has experienced a 42 percent reduction in chemical emissions since the site initiated efforts toward the 2005 goals in late 1994. This trend is especially encouraging considering that measurement systems continue to improve and are more sensitive than ever in the past.

Chemical Emissions
 
Emissions of Priority Compounds
Since 1994, Michigan Operations has made significant progress toward reducing emissions of priority compounds, achieving an almost 85 percent improvement and keeping the site on target to achieve its goals.

Priority Compounds consist of 29 chemicals, such as mercury, asbestos and benzene, which are tracked by the Environmental Protection Agency.
 
Emissions of Priority Compounds
 
Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
Continued focus has led to a steady reduction of 65 percent from 1994 levels.
 
Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
 

Dioxin Reporting
Dioxin reporting is separated into three categories — air and water emissions, disposal via landfills and as total compounds destroyed through incineration. Each activity is strictly regulated by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ).

Dow is working closely with MDEQ and the community to resolve issues surrounding dioxins and furans in the community. Activities and progress are regularly posted on our web site (www.dowmidmichigan.com).

Dioxin — Air and Water Emissions
Dow has historically used TEQ for reporting and goal-setting, due to its relevance to the public. We are encouraged by the site's 2004 performance in this area, which indicates emissions were reduced by half. In coming years we can expect this number to remain flat because industry is nearing the limit of current detection capabilities. At this point, small, natural variations are expected going forward because the measured values are so low.

 
Dioxin Emissions - Air and Water TEQ
 
These values were not tracked prior to the year 2000.
 
Dioxin On-Site Landfill — Disposal
Dow was granted a permit in 2002 by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to dredge the tertiary holding ponds (T-ponds) on-site. This permitted activity will result in a significant increase in onsite landfill disposal for the next few years.
 
Dioxin On-Site Landfill - Disposal TEQ
 
These values were not tracked prior to the year 2000.