Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet
Altuglas gains top environmental ranking

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 15, 2007)  - Voluntary environmental improvement efforts by a Louisville chemical plant have gained the facility the highest ranking from KY EXCEL, an environmental leadership program administered by the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (DEP).

Altuglas International, a division of Arkema, Inc., manufactures acrylic resins widely used in cars and other products. Altuglas recently moved from partner to master level in KY EXCEL.
Participants in KY EXCEL commit to environmental protection and improvement measures that go beyond what is required by law.

“The KY EXCEL program was established to recognize and encourage the positive efforts of corporate and private citizens who are striving to enhance Kentucky’s environment,” said Aaron Keatley, director of the Division of Compliance Assistance in DEP. “Altuglas International is to be commended for its dedication to increasing its efforts, above and beyond the industry’s environmental requirements, to create a healthier and safer Kentucky. We are pleased to welcome Altuglas to the master level of KY EXCEL.”

Altuglas joined KY EXCEL as a partner member. After achieving its initial goals, including ISO certification of its Environmental Management Program, Altuglas committed itself to attaining master level by undertaking four voluntary projects.

“KY EXCEL is more than another program following the crowd in a world in which being ‘green’ is the fashionable trend,” said Cheryl Farr, the environmental manager for Altuglas. “Instead, it is the program that sets the trend by demanding tangible results and a positive impact on the environment.

“KY EXCEL continuously raises the bar for environmental leadership. Arkema is honored and proud to be a part of this groundbreaking effort,” Farr said.

The four environmental projects are:

• The Science Teacher Program – Elementary and middle school teachers are provided with professionally developed, grade-specific, hands-on science kits to assist them in teaching science. The program also educates the teachers in environmental issues facing the chemical industry in Louisville.
• The All Care Community Center – Located near the plant, the center will offer after-school and summer programs to area children and will teach them environmental stewardship through various projects.
• Arbor Day celebration – Altuglas will support the replanting of trees and planting of new trees through a school education program.
• Tox-Away Day – This event will provide proper disposal of household items containing hazardous or toxic chemicals. These include computer equipment, oil and latex paints, motor oil and filters, automobile and household batteries. Residents will be able to bring these to the Altuglas parking lot. The free service will be available to households only.

The Altuglas International manufacturing plant in Louisville began making Plexiglas® acrylics (or molding resin) in 1968.  The resin is used in tail light lenses, signs, lighting, dashboard panels, medical equipment and many other common products.

Originally part of the Rohm and Haas Co., Altuglas has undergone several changes of name and ownership, but has retained much of the staff that has produced a lengthy record of successful operations.

Altuglas has received ISO 9002 quality and ISO 14001 environmental certifications. The company adheres to the principles of the chemical industry’s voluntary Responsible Care® codes, which provide guidelines for process safety, product stewardship, community awareness and emergency response. Altuglas employees continually work to meet and exceed local and national environmental regulations.

Launched in 2006, KY EXCEL is a voluntary program open to any individual, organization, community or business to improve and protect Kentucky’s environment beyond what is required by state law and regulation. To learn more about the program, visit www.KYEXCEL.ky.gov or call the Kentucky Division of Compliance Assistance toll free at 800-926-8111.