June 29, 2005

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that Akzo Nobel Coatings, Inc.–Car Refinishes North America of Pontiac has been designated as a Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen in a voluntary program recognizing environmental stewardship.

“I congratulate the entire team at Akzo Nobel Coatings for their achievements in environmental responsibility and creative pollution prevention,” said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester. “Their designation as Michigan’s 114th Clean Corporate Citizen is a reflection of their commitment to both growing Michigan’s economy and preserving our environment.”

Akzo Nobel Coatings is a manufacturer of coating products for the automotive aftermarket, also referred to as the collision repair market. The facility has been operating in Pontiac since 1989 and employs 280 associates.

"As the world's largest supplier of paint and coatings, Akzo Nobel insists that environmental stewardship is integrated into all of our production planning and operations," says John Lindemann, Manufacturing and Operations Director for the Pontiac site. "We are known throughout the world for providing the highest quality products. Protecting our environment is just part of living up to that reputation."

The Pontiac facility participates in “Corporate Social Responsibility” (CSR), a company-wide commitment to the environment and the communities in which Akzo Nobel does business. The CSR initiative is the cornerstone of the company’s decision-making process. The CSR policy challenges all employees to drive towards zero waste, and act according to commonly accepted norms and standards by producing reusable, durable, and safer products; and creating environmentally-friendly and eco-efficient processes.

The facility has earned International Standards Organization 14001 certification, meeting the voluntary international standard for environmental management systems, and also has voluntarily joined the DEQ as a partner in the Michigan Business Pollution Prevention Partnership.

To qualify for a Clean Corporate Citizen designation, candidates must adopt a facility-specific environmental management system, active pollution prevention initiatives, and have a consistent record of compliance with applicable environmental requirements. The program is open to establishments regulated under any of Michigan’s environmental statutes. Designations are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. For more information on Clean Corporate Citizen designation please visit our Web page at http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135-3307_366_4134---,00.html.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised June 29, 2005 by Pat Watson