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Longview Business Recognized during Pollution Prevention Week

Release Date: 9/22/1997
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.

An air conditioning manufacturer has been recognized for its work in pollution prevention by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Carrier Corp. of Longview, Texas, was awarded a certificate of excellence during Pollution Prevention Week observances by EPA Region 6.

Since Pollution Prevention Week started at the grass roots level in 1992, the third week of September has become an opportunity for government agencies, businesses and community groups to highlight successful programs and emphasize the importance of pollution prevention.

"Carrier Corp. is an excellent example of applying effective common sense solutions to preserve our natural resources and to protect public health. Since 1970, pollution prevention efforts such as theirs have reduced lead levels in our children's blood by 70 percent and cut in half toxic emissions from industries. Carrier also shows how pollution prevention pays," Region 6 Acting Administrator Jerry Clifford said.

Carrier's painting system for wire harnesses had to be cleaned between each color, producing large amounts of hazardous wastes and volatile organic carbons (VOC) emissions. VOCs contribute to harmful ground level ozone. Switching to precoated wiring has eliminated toxic wastes and emissions and saved more than $40,000 a year in labor, material and disposal costs. The plant also switched to precoated steel and saved about $500,000 in labor and disposal expenses. Carrier has eliminated more than 80 tons of solid hazardous waste and 12,000 pounds of VOC emissions.

A novel method for distributing bolts, nuts, screws and washers has saved Carrier more than $360,000 a year. The hardware is received in metal "feeder" containers which are placed on the production line. When the containers are empty they are returned to the suppliers to be refilled. This common sense approach eliminates throw-away packaging and saves the area landfill more than 36,000 pounds of waste each year.

"Preventing pollution also makes economic sense because it preserves our natural resources and eliminates the expense and liability of pollution cleanup. I urge everyone - citizen, business leader and government official alike - to make a commitment this week to prevent pollution," Mr. Clifford said.