July 28, 2006

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that Recycling Concepts of West MI, Inc. (RCI) has been designated a Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen in the DEQ’s voluntary program recognizing environmental management and stewardship. RCI is the 125th overall member of the program.

RCI works to solve solid waste and recycling problems for other businesses by accepting and recycling paper, plastics, foam, pallets, scrap metal, and many other materials that would otherwise be discarded in a landfill.

“RCI is a perfect example of a company creating an innovative process to better manage our waste stream,” said Director Chester. “I congratulate the entire team at RCI for recognizing the importance of environmental improvement and protection.”

The facility has set and achieved environmental goals including 5 percent reduction in the use of diesel fuel, electricity, and office paper. In addition, RCI is targeting reductions in propane usage, has committed to continual improvement throughout their environmental management system, and 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. Designations are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

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 July 28, 2006 by Pat Watson