ECO^{2 SM} Initiative

BASF is focused on its ECO^{2 SM} product development and technical consultation initiative, which requires our innovations to create benefits in economic and ecological terms. For example, our development of the powder slurry technology at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt, Germany, is a significant achievement in cost reduction and ecological improvement.BASF's ECO² initiative also includes "Total Life Cycle Analysis." With this approach, we strive to lower the amount of product that is applied to a vehicle, maintain product performance and lower the environmental impact. Also, BASF Coatings is committed to ISO 14001, the new environmental standard, and is scheduled to be registered at all sites by late 2000.