Document xzRjzRqY4Kv5JwwdnM31QzrdJ

Headline: Lowe's commits to phasing out paint removal products with methylene chloride and NMP Subhead: Products will be removed from assortment globally by the end of 2018 Today, Lowe's announced it will phase out paint removal products with the chemicals methylene chloride and NMP from its global product selection by the end of the year. This effort is part of the company's ongoing commitment to bring safer, affordable options to customers. The company also plans to work with the EPA on a consistent regulatory standard across the industry. "We care deeply about the health and safety of our customers, and great progress is being made in the development of safer and more effective alternatives," said Mike McDermott, Lowe's chief customer officer. "As a home improvement leader, we recognize the need for viable paint removal products and remain committed to working closely with suppliers to further innovate in this category." In the interim, Lowe's continues to take additional actions steps, including actively working with the EPA, key NGOs and suppliers to quickly market new alternatives and lead change in the industry. The Green Chemistry & Commerce Council (GC3), a multi-stakeholder collaborative that drives the commercial adoption of green chemistry and which counts Lowe's among its leading retailer members, welcomes the opportunity to work with the company in engaging the value chain to scale more sustainable options. According to GC3 Director Joel Tickner, "Lowe's announcement provides an important stimulus for green chemistry solutions. As we work with GC3 members and others across the entire value chain, we recognize that green chemistry alternatives must offer comparable performance at a reasonable price for the end-users, whether consumers or contractors." Lowe's currently has several paint remover alternatives without methylene chloride available today and has plans to bring more options to consumers by year-end. Lowe's has worked with its vendors to encourage improved labeling on packaging to better communicate the proper use of these chemicals, along with product safety guides and instructions on Lowes.com. The company will continue to share updates on its corporate responsibility efforts on the Open House newsroom. To read more about the company's commitment to its sustainability, visit <NEW CSR landing page>. Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA Tier 1 ED 002061 00044832-00001