McDonnell & Miller Receives Prestigious Illinois Pollution Prevention Award

Chicago-based McDonnell & Miller was recently commended by Illinois Governor George H. Ryan for reducing hazardous waste and toxic air emissions, and is one of only 17 companies throughout the state receiving the 14th annual Governor's Pollution Prevention Award.

McDonnell & Miller received its award based on the following achievements:

• Machine coolant was reduced 44% through raw material tracking and a new coolant recycling system
• Energy consumption was reduced 14% through continuous monitoring of electrical use and a comprehensive re-lamping program
• Organic carbon (VOC) emissions were reduced 70% with the substitution of aqueous parts washing solutions for solvents and elimination of paint on a product line.

Awarded annually to Illinois companies for their achievements in reducing hazardous waste and toxic air emissions, the Governor's Pollution Prevention Awards were judged in a statewide competition on the innovative strategies and uses of technology to prevent or reduce the volume and toxicity of waste. Judging criteria included technical innovation, environmental significance, economic benefits and commitment to pollution prevention.

Seventeen companies received awards this year, reporting a combined annual savings of more than $8.2 million in material and disposal costs and preventing nearly 520,000 tons of waste from being released into the environment.

"These manufacturers, service and technology firms are worthy of recognition for their commitment to improving the environment," Ryan said. "A number of them have made pollution prevention a top priority for many years, proving once again that wise use of resources and reducing waste flows make sense for Illinois businesses."

“Receiving this award is a proud accomplishment for McDonnell & Miller and all its employees,” said Robert Dvorak, McDonnell & Miller General Manager. “We take great pride in being a good corporate citizen and insuring that we provide a safe environment for our community.”