In London, ‘Drop Dow Now’ protestors recently staged a “die-in” at the Olympic Countdown Clock at Trafalgar Square. In India, the protest has intensified with survivors of the Bhopal Gas tragedy planning to organise the ‘Bhopal Olympics’ to coincide with the Games in London.
Paradoxically, Dow Chemicals’ association with Indian hockey is firmly rooted; so much so that without its involvement the 2010 Commonwealth Games, Hockey World Cup and Olympic Qualifiers at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium in Delhi wouldn’t have been possible. For, the Poligras turf used for these events contains high-performance polyethylene resins (DOWLEX PE), developed and supplied exclusively by Dow Chemicals’ performance plastic division, to produce soft, tear resistant grass yarn. The same material was used for the new turf at the Riverbank Arena, only the colour was different. Even the latest blue-pink turf laid at the Ludhiana University in April contains this component.
In fact, Dow has an enduring association with Federation of International Hockey. Last year, they developed the “functionalised” polyethylene resin that provides significant improvements in tuft lock. The long-term durability in turn helps keep refurbishment costs down for users of artificial turf.
They are made from sustainable materials without having to compromise on performance. Moreover, they have also worked together for developing a water-free synthetic turf.
The IOC receives £60million a year from Dow and the London Olympics Organising Committee also receives sponsorship benefits from the company.