February 28, 2006

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that Continental Automotive Systems' North American headquarters in Auburn Hills has been designated as a Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen in a voluntary program recognizing environmental stewardship. The facility, which performs research, development, and testing of automotive brake systems and tires, becomes the 118th facility statewide to earn the designation.

“I am pleased to welcome Continental Automotive Systems to our growing partnership of Clean Corporate Citizens,” said Director Chester. “They have elected to build and grow in Southeast Michigan, and are clearly demonstrating that a healthy environment and a healthy economy go hand in hand.”

Continental Automotive Systems sets environmental goals for reducing energy consumption by five percent, involving all employees in environmental improvement, and conserving natural resources through energy efficiency, reductions in water use, and recycling of electronics, paper, metal, and tires.

“We are pleased to join more than 100 companies in Michigan in expressing our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Kathy Spinks, Health & Safety Coordinator, Continental Automotive Systems, N.A. “All Continental employees have a responsibility to live up to these standards, and they do so in facilities around the world, including our Auburn Hills North American headquarters.”

The facility builds responsible environmental management and pollution prevention into all aspects of their operation. In their environmental policy titled “Responsibility for Mankind and the Environment,” Continental Automotive Systems commits to developing recyclable products, designing environmentally-safe processes, and communicating openly with the public and other organizations regarding planning and activities.

Continental Automotive Systems is also a voluntary partner in the Department of Environmental Quality’s 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 www.michigan.gov/deqc3.

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 February 28, 2006 by Pat Watson