Environmental Policy
American & Efird's
policy is to conduct its operations in such a manner as to protect the
environment. At a minimum, this means that A&E will comply with all
applicable laws and regulations in the U.S. and in other countries where
we operate.
We believe that a safe
and healthy environment is the obligation of every citizen and every
responsible enterprise and that we should play a leadership role in
protecting the environment for the generation to come. Our commitment to
the environment is expressed by expenditures for equipment and programs to
ensure that by-products of the manufacturing process do not adversely
affect the air, land, or water.
We believe that one of
the most critical environmental problems is solid waste, which accumulates
in landfills, and that we must work towards the ultimate goal of
"Zero Waste," the virtual elimination of landfill use.
We are committed to
working with our customers to encourage them to purchase and accept
products that have recyclable packaging.
We are committed to
working with suppliers to design products and product packaging that may
be recycled.
We are committed to
encouraging our communities, families, and employees to conserve our
natural resources and better protect the environment in their daily lives.
We are also committed
to meeting or exceeding local regulations that restrict wastewater and air
discharges and solid waste disposal in our international operations. If
local standards are not available or, if they are less restrictive,
A&E's international standards will be met.
Procedure
Environmental
regulations must be established with great care because the resulting cost
will be borne by society as a whole. Society's environmental and economic
well-being are interrelated.
In addressing proposed
laws and regulations, A&E will participate, directly or through trade
associations, with national, state, and local bodies to assure to the best
of its ability that new legislation and regulations serve the public
interest, are sound and realistic, and have sufficient merit to be
sustained.
Responsibilities
Division vice
presidents of manufacturing and general managers of operating subsidiaries
are responsible for complying with this policy and establishing control
procedures that can be audited. Any proposed commitment to regulatory
agencies that will require actions exceeding the authority of the division
vice president or general manager will be reviewed in advance with the
president.
The Vice President of
Environmental, Safety, & Health will maintain oversight of the
company's environmental activities and will be responsible for advising
the senior management on the adequacy of compliance with this policy.
Plant and division management will facilitate this function by making
information available as needed. |
