BASF plastics will provide solutions for the challenges posed by sustainable growth in China and in the Asia Pacific region. In line with its global strategy, "We Create Chemistry", BASF will work with customers to contribute to the strong growth in Asia Pacific by introducing new technology, new chemical products, new processes and solutions that help address the challenges posed by strains on resources, the increasing need for efficient food production, and demands for an enhanced quality of life.
In 2011 BASF plastics segment sales to customers in Asia Pacific were Euro 3.4 billion, around 24% of total sales in the region.
Among the key components of China's 12th Five-year Program are energy-saving, environmental protection, new materials and industry upgrades for future development. In 2011 BASF globally spent about Euro 1.6 billion on research and development, of which around one third was invested in products and technologies for increased energy eff iciency, as wel l as climate protect ion, resource conservation and alternative raw materials.
Today, agriculture already consumes 70% of the world's water, and China has an annual consumption of approximately 1 million tons of mulch film, making it the biggest in the world. Mulch film is used worldwide for crop forcing (early harvesting) and weed prevention, since it accelerates growth
and retains water in the soil. At Chinaplas 2012 BASF will be showcasing Ecovio R F Mulch, for use in the manufacture of compostable agricultural film.