June 3, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that DURA Automotive Systems, Inc. in Mancelona has been designated the 98th Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen, the first in Antrim County.

“The environmental stewardship principles that make DURA Automotive Systems a Clean Corporate Citizen, and more importantly a responsible corporate member of the Mancelona community, are models for all Michigan Industries,” said Governor Granholm. “I congratulate the entire DURA team for demonstrating that environmental protection can successfully contribute to economic achievement.”

“At DURA in Mancelona we are committed not only to maintaining our position as a top manufacturer of quality automotive parts, but also to building a work environmental that reflects the values of our management and staff,” said Drew May, Plant Manager. “For this reason and because we recognize our corporate responsibility to the community, we have been very proactive in implementing an environmental management system. It is satisfying to see the diligent efforts of our team recognized by the Governor in this manner.”

DURA Automotive Systems designs, tests, and manufactures hood latches and parking brakes for the automotive industry in their 170,000 square foot plant. The facility has set and achieved environmental goals including recycling 100 percent of cardboard waste, eliminating Styrofoam and aerosol containers, and eliminating the use of plating chrome by 2005. The facility also earned ISO 14001 certification in January 2003, meeting the voluntary international standard for environmental management systems.

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

“DURA serves as an example of proactive environmental efforts in the automotive parts supply industry,” said Director Chester. “We consider the facility’s staff and management to be valuable partners in our efforts to protect Michigan’s environment.”

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. 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 June 3, 2004 by Pat Watson