MIDLAND, Mich. (August 16, 2011) – As a leading global chemical company focused on bringing innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges, The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE:DOW) launched today the Dow Solar Design to Zero Competition, an international challenge open to architecture, design and engineering students and professionals. The competition challenges students to develop innovative projects incorporating active and passive solar technologies, among other sustainable construction-related solutions, to design near-zero energy multi-family dwellings.

“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Dow, so this competition is a great way to learn from today’s students about the type of sustainable design solutions we need to foster for the future,” explained Pat Nugent, director of new business development, Dow Solar. “Having this type of global collaboration and input is also a wonderful way to find creative approaches to incorporating energy efficiency and solar capabilities into a home. The aesthetics are becoming more important for consumers who want to live more sustainably, but don’t want their lifestyle or home to be compromised, so it will be especially exciting to see the blend of art and science in these near zero designs.”

Given the collaborative nature of the competition and the increasingly interconnectedness of the Information Age, the competition will live exclusively online at www.designtozero.com.

Registration for the competition is open through September 25 (final date for registration payment).

All proceeds from registration will go toward an NGO to be announced by Dow Solar.

All final housing designs must be submitted by October 31.

The prizes, including first, second and third prize winners of $20,000, $10,000, and $5,000 will be announced at an event in the Spring of 2012.

The Dow Solar Design to Zero competition aligns with Dow’s commitment and vision articulated in its ambitious 2015 sustainability goals, which include developing and applying innovative technologies and collaborations that further sustainability. The Dow Solar Design to Zero Competition also supports Dow’s role as global partner in the U.N.-designated 2011 International Year of Chemistry. The initiative celebrates achievements in science and the potential of chemistry to address world challenges, encourage interest in chemistry among young people and generate enthusiasm for the creative future of this science.