April 18, 2007

The Department of Environmental Quality has released its 2006 Pollution Prevention (P2) Annual Report titled, Michigan Leading the Way in Pollution Prevention. The eleventh annual report highlights Michigan's innovative approaches to achieving reductions in pollution, eliminating waste, and expanding recycling; and details P2 efforts undertaken between October 1, 2005, and September 30, 2006.

Last year, the National Pollution Prevention Roundtable recognized Michigan as a national leader in environmental innovation at its 10th Annual Awards Ceremony. Michigan received two Most Valuable Pollution Prevention Awards for the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program; and Steelcase Corporation for its accomplishments in environmental stewardship, sustainable operations, community engagement, and social responsibility. Michigan also set the bar at the Hospitals for Healthy Environment Annual Awards Ceremony with five Michigan hospitals receiving the Environmental Leadership Award, the nation's highest environmental award.

"The DEQ has one of the most innovative state P2 programs in the country, offering award winning services to businesses across Michigan," said Director Steven E. Chester. "We look forward to continuing those partnership efforts and showing our commitment to a healthy environment and a healthy economy throughout Michigan."

The DEQ P2 Program has served over 10,000 manufacturers, restaurants, farmers, and parks and recreation. The DEQ continues to promote environmental stewardship through P2 initiatives and affirming that a healthy environment is critical to our state.

Copies of the report may be downloaded from the DEQ Internet Web site at, www.michigan.gov/deqp2.

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 April 18, 2007 by Pat Watson