Dow AgroSciences (NZ) Limited - Current Issues and Challenges

The Dow AgroSciences plant located in New Plymouth, New Zealand, previously manufactured various phenoxy herbicides including 2,4,5-T. The manufacture of 2,4,5-T at the New Plymouth site occurred from 1962 until 1987 when it was voluntarily withdrawn from the market in favour of a replacement product.  Public and regulator attention has been focused over the years on claims of alleged ill-health as a result of these historic operations.

The New Zealand Government has undertaken extensive studies of background levels throughout the country of a range of organochlorines including dioxin. These broad national studies include testing air, soil, rivers, estuaries, blood serum, breast milk and food which have all confirmed very low levels of dioxin in the New Zealand environment compared to other countries.

The Government has commissioned local air, groundwater, soil and blood serum testing in the community around the plant. In addition the authorities have undertaken a detailed community health record review and have exhaustively pursued public claims of improper waste disposal. Although some local dioxin levels are elevated relative to typical New Zealand values, none of these national or local studies has indicated significant cause for concern.

The company also commissioned its own study to evaluate the health status of its past and present employees. That study was completed in April 2008 and can be viewed here.

These various studies are referred to in the "Frequently Asked Questions" section of this site, as are the other key subjects of public debate. The company is committed to full and proper discussion and consultation with its employees, the community and with regulatory authorities and the extensive detail on this site reflects that commitment.

For further information:

Dow AgroSciences (NZ) Limited - New Health Studies

Dow AgroSciences Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)