March 9, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that LDM Technologies, Inc., Clarkston Facility has earned the distinction of becoming Michigan’s 86th Clean Corporate Citizen.

This is the 2nd LDM Technologies plant to achieve Clean Corporate Citizen status with another one undergoing the administrative review process. The Clarkston plant is a medium-sized automotive supplier who now joins the most elite environmental partnership in the state of Michigan.

“The state of Michigan congratulates companies like this who are striving to incorporate sustainable environmental practices in their daily business routines,” said Governor Granholm. “The fact that this is the 2nd LDM facility to attain Clean Corporate status with another in review is evidence that companies can successfully merge the concepts of environmental stewardship and economic success.”

“We are proud of our plants that have achieved recognition as Clean Corporate Citizens. The Clarkston plant’s pollution prevention initiatives exemplify our core values and make good business sense,” stated Alan C. Johnson, CEO.

The Clarkston Facility is a shipping, receiving, and manufacturing plant consisting of 2,879 square feet of office space and 21,604 square feet of manufacturing space. It contains fourteen injection molding machines ranging in size from 85 tons to 450 tons. The injection molding process starts with raw plastic pellets, which are melted by heating and then injected into molds. The facility operates 24 hours a day, 5-6 days per week and employs 56 associates.

Reducing energy consumption by five percent was this year’s goal at LDM Technologies, Inc. – Clarkston. They accomplished this through a combination of the following actions: installation of barrel blanket covers, reduction of compressor PSI’s, installation of programmable thermostats, and changing light switches to sensors that shut off if no motion is detected.

“The auto industry and related suppliers have come to the forefront in voluntary environmental improvement efforts in Michigan,” DEQ Director Chester said. “Corporations such as LDM Technologies, Inc. are spreading the Clean Corporate Citizen message throughout their communities and corporations.”

To qualify for a Clean Corporate Citizen 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 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 March 9, 2004 by Pat Watson