Dow

Paving the way to a sustainable tomorrow

Company type

Large company


Sector

Chemistry


Location

Terneuzen, the Netherlands

Back to news

Embracing innovation: university students tackle industry challenges

Dow Packaging & Specialty Plastics R&D/TS&D hosted an exciting symposium for university master students, challenging them to apply their knowledge to real-world industry challenges. The focus was clear: sustainability and innovation in the polymer industry. 

From a pool of numerous applicants, 20 talented students were selected to participate in the Innovation Challenge. These students brought their A-game, contributing to the sustainability transformation. Their teamwork and innovative solutions were impressive, especially given the limited time frame. 

The students faced three major challenges each designed to address critical aspects in the industry: 

  1. Protect the Climate: By 2030, Dow aims to reduce net annual carbon emissions by 5 million metric tons compared to its 2020 baseline. By 2050, Dow intends to be carbon neutral. 

  1. Transform the Waste: By 2030, Dow will stop the waste by enabling 3 million metric tons of plastic to be collected, reused, or recycled through its direct actions and partnerships. 

  1. Close the Loop: By 2035, Dow will close the loop by ensuring 100% of the packaging applications it sells are reusable or recyclable. 

The competition's top performers will be rewarded with coveted research internship positions for the next year, located in either Tarragona, Spain, or Wiesbaden, Germany. This opportunity not only recognizes their hard work but also provides a platform for them to further their careers and continue making impactful contributions to the industry. 

Would you also like to be part of the company that advances innovation? Explore opportunities at: https://dow.inc/3ZEIANs