Industry in the Southeast Steps Up Recycling and Reducing Waste

(Atlanta, Ga. - Nov. 25, 2008) 8 WasteWise partners and Countrywide Partnership for Environmental Priorities (NPEP) partners in the Southeast were acknowledged for their environmental achievements in reducing greenhouse gases and preventing harmful chemicals from entering the environment. Nationally, 26 WasteWise partners and 29 Countrywide Partnership for Environmental Priorities (NPEP) were recognized. Both E.P.A. programs work with organizations to achieve environmental benefits beyond regulations.

WasteWise partners have used innovative waste management methods to reduce and recycle in excess of 150 million tons of waste. By decreasing the demand on raw materials, WasteWise partners have shown that they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower costs.

NPEP partners are taking significant steps in reducing or removing priority chemicals, such as lead and mercury. This year's award winners reported reductions of in excess of nine million pounds of priority and other environmentally harmful chemicals, far exceeding the amount reported last year.

The 8 partners in the Southeast include:

Embraer - Nashville, Tenn.
Pull-A-Part, LLC - Atlanta, Ga.
The Okonite Company, Incorporated - Orangeburg, S.C. and Paterson, N.J.
U.S. Postal Service - Alabama District - Hall of Fame
Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation/Office of Environmental Assistance - Partner of the Year State Government
Public Venue Recycling: Seven-Star, Incorporated - Gold Achievement
Employee Education: Delta Air Lines, Incorporated - Gold Achievement
Small Business: Accent Construction, LLC - Partner of the Year

WasteWise is a voluntary partnership plan launched by E.P.A. in 1994 with in excess of 2000 partners. WasteWise partners not only reduce waste, but also are addressing global climate change. By decreasing the demand on raw materials through waste reduction and recycling, these organizations are improving operations, reducing costs, and minimizing their environmental footprints.

NPEP is a voluntary waste minimization plan that encourages public and private organizations to form voluntary partnerships with E.P.A. to reduce the use or release of 31 priority chemicals beyond the requirements of environmental regulations. These chemicals are long-lasting, highly toxic substances that can harm humans and the environment.

Information on WasteWise and NPEP 2008 Awards: epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/wastewise/conf.htm

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