June 29, 2006

At a ceremony held in Ontonagon today, officials from Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation were presented with the Department of Environmental Quality’s Neighborhood Environmental Partners Program (NEP) Gold Award, the second year in a row the company has earned the distinction.

The NEP Gold Awards Program was developed by the DEQ to recognize facilities and their community partners who have worked together to improve the environment locally by implementing ongoing environmental projects.

“This award represents the Smurfit-Stone’s commitment to Michigan, and to their community,” said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester. “I am pleased to have them as our partner in protecting Michigan’s environment, and growing Michigan’s economy.”

The Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation and its community partners received a NEP Gold Award for their significant environmental contribution to the local community by undertaking projects ranging from fish planting and habitat restoration projects, mentoring small businesses, initiating community recycling programs, and working with area schools.

“Our mill is proud to receive this award for the second year in a row. It represents the collaborative efforts of our mill and our neighbors, as well as community organizations and the Michigan DEQ to promote and sustain a healthy environment and a positive quality of life in the area,” said Chris Broome, General Manager of the Smurfit-Stone Container – Ontonagon Mill. “At the core of our efforts are our employees who work hard everyday to strengthen the mill and our community. This award is truly recognition of our team and I accept this on their behalf."

Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation is an active member of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s Clean Corporate Citizen (C3) Program. Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation received their C3 designation on January 21, 1998 and has successfully renewed their designation since then. The company also received a five year Clean Corporate Citizen longevity award in November of 2004.

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, 2006 by Pat Watson