The J.R. Simplot Company last week issued a first summary of its sustainability practices. The Simplot Sustainability Summary, published on Earth Day (April 22), charts the company's 80-year commitment to Bringing Earth's Resources to Life through practices that ensure the future vitality of those resources.
The Sustainable Simplot program is built on the same three focus areas that characterize the company: Respect for Resources, Spirit of Innovation and Passion for People. Simplot has been honored in each of these areas for its sound sustainability oversight and ethical practices:
--Respect for Resources encompasses natural resource protection, reclamation, environmental policies and regulation, and recycling. Simplot's Lower Columbia Basin Grower Solutions unit in Umatilla, Ore., was honored as one of only 20 nationwide winners of the 2009 Environmental Respect Award sponsored by DuPont Crop Protection.
--Spirit of Innovation focuses on technology innovation across Simplot's value chain to improve efficiency and reduce costs and operational impacts. Simplot's potato processing facilities in Aberdeen, Idaho, and Othello, Wash., were recently recognized with Energy Star certification by the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy.
--Passion for People highlights policies, practices and partnerships that impact Simplot employees and communities. The Mine Safety and Health Administration presented Simplot's Smoky Canyon Mine with its most prestigious honor, the Sentinel of Safety Award.
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