The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has chosen Waste Management (NYSE: WM) as one of Southern California’s most committed companies when it comes to air quality and sustainability.
Waste Management’s launch of the 1,000th truck last year made the company stand out in the Innovative Transportation Projects category. Currently, Waste Management operates a fleet of 1,500 natural gas trucks including 900 in Southern California. Waste Management’s Area Vice President of Southern California accepted the award during the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s 24th annual Clean Air Awards ceremony on Oct. 12 in downtown Los Angeles.
“We have made a huge effort to put the environment at the top of our priority list as a company,” said Larry Metter Area Vice President for Waste Management of Southern California. “It’s exciting to see that those efforts are being recognized. We hope to start a chain reaction by inspiring others to commit their offices, their homes and their vehicles to sustainability and clean air, as well.”
Within the past year, Waste Management’s natural gas-fueled fleet has reduced petroleum use by eight million gallons, eliminated 45,100 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, slashed particulate matter by 80 percent and cut noxious emission by 50 percent compared to 2010 diesel engines.
“Waste Management’s commitment to alternative fuel trucks has helped protect public health in neighborhoods across the Southland,” said William A. Burke, South Coast Air Quality Management District Chairman. “We commend their significant environmental efforts in this regard.”
The SCAQMD Clean Air Awards honor individuals, businesses, public agencies and non-profit organizations that make significant contributions to clean air in Southern California.
ABOUT WASTE MANAGEMENT
Waste Management, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, is the leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in North America. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides collection, transfer, recycling and resource recovery, and disposal services. It is also a leading developer, operator and owner of waste-to-energy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. The company’s customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout North America. To learn more information about Waste Management visit www.wm.com or www.thinkgreen.com.
