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INDIANAPOLIS – Buckhorn, Inc. joined Indiana’s Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). Jim Weingart, office director of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s (IDEM’s) Northern Regional Office, presented Rick Singer, Plant Manager, with a commemorative plaque and flag, signifying the company’s participation in the state’s most rigorous voluntary pollution prevention program.

ESP is a statewide program that provides incentive and recognition for industrial operations that go above and beyond environmental requirements for preventing air, land and water pollution. To become an ESP member, businesses must maintain an exemplary compliance record, certify that they have adopted and implemented an approved environmental management system, and commit to specific measures for continued improvement in their environmental performance.

Buckhorn, Inc.’s facility in Wells County employs 165 people. As an ESP participant, the facility has reduced its energy consumption with efficiency retrofits, saving 2,588,000 kilowatt hours (kWh). Buckhorn, Inc. also saved 3,664,000 kWh through preventive maintenance and employee awareness programs.

“We always want to recognize ESP companies because their participation is beneficial in so many ways,” said Weingart. “ESP projects typically increase efficiency and reduce waste, which helps companies save money and sustain their operations. These are voluntary steps to go above environmental regulations for the benefit of all Hoosiers.”

ESP is managed by IDEM’s Office of Pollution Prevention and Technical Assistance, which is housed in the Office of Compliance Support. IDEM accepts new applications for the ESP program year around. ESP members must report to IDEM on their environmental initiatives every year and reapply for ESP membership every three years. Information, including annual performance reports, is available on the IDEM website at www.IN.gov/idem/prevention/2359.htm.

About IDEM
IDEM (http://www.idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment.