Dow Committed to Innovations

Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics’ has said it is playing an integral role in Africa’s development by focussing on innovative and sustainable solutions within key sectors that are critical drivers of growth and prosperity. Commercial Vice President, Packaging & Specialty Plastics, Europe Middle East and Africa,MEA. Javier Constante stated this, noting that in order to do this effectively, it is vital that they work with their strategic partners so as to take these innovations even further. Constante revealed this last week when he met with its key value chain partners and customers from West Africa to highlight innovations that are focused on making the African region safer, healthier, cleaner and more sustainable in Lagos. He said: “One of the major drivers for packaging growth is the fact that urbanisation and modern lifestyles are on the increase throughout Africa. As a result, there is an increased demand for food safety, shelf life and supply chain transportation. Packaging innovation is vital in achieving this. For example, flexible plastic packaging can extend the shelf life of food from three days to over 14 days in store, with in-store waste reduced from an average three of stock to less than one per cent.” He added that “Flexible plastic packaging plays a significant role in spurring economic development and supporting a more sustainable world. Two of Dow’s initiatives, Fresh to Table and Move it Safely, focus on how sustainable packaging can protect food in-transit and on store shelves, guarding against contaminates and sealing in freshness.”