February 25, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that Tenneco Automotive in Litchfield was designated as Michigan’s 83rd Clean Corporate Citizen.

Tenneco Automotive produces automotive emission control components and systems for original equipment manufacturers including DaimlerChrysler and General Motors Corporation. The 200,000 square foot plant ships more than 26 trucks of parts per day.

“I congratulate the Tenneco Automotive team for their achievement and dedication to environmental excellence throughout the life cycle of their products,” Granholm said. “They have integrated responsible environmental management into all aspects of their manufacturing and assembly processes. Tenneco-Litchfield’s commitment to protecting our shared environment has earned them this recognition.”

“It is a great honor to receive this award. Tenneco Automotive Litchfield is dedicated to ensuring a healthy environment for the safety and well-being of our employees and our community,” said Doug Minix, Litchfield Plant Manager.

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.

The facility earned International Standards Organization 14001 certification in 2002, meeting the voluntary international standard for environmental management systems. The Litchfield team works directly with their contractors to ensure that all environmental aspects of on-site operations conform to the ISO 14001 standard.

The facility also has voluntarily joined the DEQ as a partner in the Michigan Business Pollution Prevention Partnership, according to DEQ Director Steven E. Chester.

“The Litchfield team’s commitment to the environment is evident by establishing pollution prevention goals that include twenty percent reductions in energy and oil usage,” said Chester. “Their recognition for their environmental performance is much deserved and we welcome Tenneco Automotive-Litchfield to Michigan’s growing list of environmentally-conscious facilities designated as Clean Corporate Citizens.”

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

Revised February 25, 2004 by Pat Watson