Applications being accepted for Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards

Awards recognize companies with novel approaches to waste reduction or elimination         

[APRIL 25, 2006]  SPRINGFIELD -- Companies and organizations proud of their pollution prevention efforts are invited to submit applications for the 2006 Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards. The Waste Management and Research Center, a division of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, is now accepting applications for the annual awards program.

"It gives me great pleasure, year after year, to see new companies and organizations recognized for their pollution prevention efforts," said Sam Flood, acting director of the Department of Natural Resources. "Our land benefits, our people benefit, and these companies benefit for showing their leadership in environmental protection."

"Organizations that lead the way in finding and using new methods to reduce waste and protect the environment contribute to a healthier Illinois," said George VanderVelde, director of the Waste Management and Research Center. "Anyone who makes an ongoing commitment to prevent pollution that, in the long run, will make their employees and our communities healthier is encouraged to apply."

Since 1987, the Waste Management and Research Center has presented the Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards to companies and organizations in Illinois that have demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence through the practice of pollution prevention. Any Illinois public or private organization is eligible to apply for an award. Continuous Improvement Awards are awarded to companies that have shown an ongoing commitment to pollution prevention.

Eligible applicants will be evaluated in one of the following categories:

• Small, medium or large business or industrial facility

• Vendor, supplier

• Community group

• Trade organization or association

• Educational institution

• Service organization (such as medical, military, government)

Information about the Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards and an application are available online at www.wmrc.uiuc.edu/gp2a/. To receive an application by mail, contact Bob Iverson, information services manager, at [phone] or [e-mail].

The application due date is May 22. Technical experts from the Waste Management and Research Center will review applications, and site visits may be made. The governor's office makes the final award decisions. Winners will be announced at the Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards on Oct. 25 at the Doubletree Hotel in Bloomington.

[Illinois Department of Natural Resources news release]