The core direction of DuPont is Sustainable Growth — the creation of shareholder and societal value while we reduce our environmental footprint along the value chains in which we operate. Through this Commitment to safety, health and environmental excellence, we affirm to all our stakeholders, including our employees, customers, shareholders and the public, that we will conduct our business with respect and care for the environment. We will implement those strategies that build successful businesses and achieve the greatest benefit for all our stakeholders without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Some of our environmental stewardship initiatives in our headquarters in Virginia Beach (USA) include:
Single Stream Recycling
By recycling paper products, aluminum, plastic bottles and glass containers, we reduced our conventional waste disposal by 40 percent in 2010. This year, we are aiming for a 60 percent reduction.
Reusable Container Mindset
We have replaced paper cups and Styrofoam with recyclable or biodegradable paper products, whenever possible.
Specialised Recycling Projects with Local Businesses
E-cycling Events – By recycling small electrical appliances, we help keep them out of landfills and support fund-raising projects of the Virginia Aquarium.
Steel, Plastic, Fluorescent Lamp, and Battery Recycling - To date, we've recycled 3.5 tons, and we expect 9 tons more this year. We also team up Veolia Environmental Services to recycle fluorescent lamps, keeping a hazardous material and its component parts out of the environment.
TFC Recycling of Chesapeake helps us dispose of non-recyclable plastics through the "Waste to Energy" programme. The process keeps these plastics out of landfills, and generates electrical and steam energy that powers local industry. So far, 6000 pounds of plastics has been recycled.
We also participate in a battery recycling programme, specifically for dry-cell and rechargeable types.
Miscellaneous Energy Management and Energy Conservation Initiatives
We use many of Unisource's "Green Product Solutions" such as environment-friendly cleaning chemicals and disposable paper products.