March 1, 2007

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester officially welcomed the National Superconducting Cyclotron on the campus of Michigan State University into the Clean Corporate Citizen (C3) program today. The Cyclotron earned the distinction of becoming Michigan's 143rd C3, joining the ranks of the state's top environmental performers in the DEQ's voluntary program recognizing environmental management and stewardship.

"This is the first institution of higher education in Michigan to achieve this designation," said Director Chester. "We are proud to have them as our partner in keeping Michigan's environment clean."

The NSCL's Environmental Management System was developed and implemented by the university's environmental staff over the course of several years. In August 2006, NSCL became one of very few university facilities in the nation to earn the ISO 14001:2004 certification that requires a strong commitment to minimizing harmful effects on the environment and working for continual improvement of their environmental performance.

"The NSCL was already in full compliance with its environmental standards and permits," said Ian Gray, MSU Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies. "This certification goes beyond compliance and demonstrates MSU's commitment to both environmental performance and proactive environmental stewardship."

All of Michigan State University's Environmental Management Systems include provisions to ensure that contractors, vendors, employees, and subcontractors comply with the environmental requirements.

"NSCL strives to be a good steward of the public trust in all aspects of operations," said C. Konrad Gelbke, University Distinguished Professor and NSCL Director. "This includes an ongoing commitment to act responsibly toward the environment and be a good neighbor to the university and the greater mid-Michigan community."

NSCL has established a comprehensive list of environmental goals that address a range of initiatives from reducing energy usage to the handling of flammable liquids and paints. Pursuant to one such goal, the laboratory is replacing all old 4-foot long fluorescent light fixtures with more efficient lighting.

To qualify for a C3 designation, candidates must adopt a facility-specific Environmental Management System and active pollution prevention initiatives, and have a consistent record of compliance with applicable environmental requirements. Clean Corporate Citizens are eligible for certain regulatory benefits under the state's environmental programs, including expedited permit approval. The program is open to any Michigan public or private business, educational institution, medical facility or governmental agency. Designations must be renewed regularly.

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 March 1, 2007 by Pat Watson