February 25, 2004

Kay Automotive Graphics has been designated as Michigan’s 84th Clean Corporate Citizen by Governor Jennifer Granholm and Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester.

“This automotive supply facility has been demonstrating environmental ethics and performance for more than 10 years at their Lake Orion site,” said Governor Granholm. “ We are proud to recognize this corporation, specifically their Michigan plant, with the DEQ’s top voluntary environmental award, Clean Corporate Citizen status.”

“Kay Automotive Graphics is proud to be recognized as a Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen. Our company culture is committed to recognizing our environmental responsibility. This ultimately benefits our customers, employees, company, and community. Through the continuing efforts of our dedicated employees, we look forward to maintaining our designation as a Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen and improving upon our Environmental Management System,” said Alfred H. Bonnell, Executive Vice-President, Kay Automotive Graphics.

This facility was built at its current location in the mid 1980s and employs 325 people in support of the automotive industry. Kay Automotive Graphics has been working diligently for nearly 10 years to reduce waste and pollution from its activities. Some examples include: elimination of over 1400 gallons per year of liquid hazardous waste, reduction of 200 pounds per week of solid hazardous waste, reclamation of 97 percent solvents, use of environmentally friendly clear coat, and replacement of paper cups and buckets with reusable stainless steel.

“Environmental performance is so important globally, but it starts in our own backyards,” DEQ Director Steven Chester said. “Kay Automotive Graphics has been a good neighbor and a top environmental performer for many years, and we are glad to have this opportunity to promote their efforts here in Michigan. We congratulate the employees at this plant who are striving to create a sustainable neighborhood.”

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. Clean Corporate Citizens are eligible for certain regulatory benefits under the state’s environmental programs, including expedited permit approval. 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.

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