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EPA WELCOMES PORTLAND 'PARTNER'

Release Date: 10/19/1998
Contact Information: Leo Kay, Press Office, (617) 918-4154

BOSTON -- The Environmental Protection Agency has announced that Minute Man Press in Portland, Maine is a participant in the agency's "Partners for Change" program, which encourages New England businesses and municipalities to explore and implement responsible environmental practices in return for EPA recognition.

The EPA is recognizing Minute Man Press for: reducing the amount of waste solvent from five gallons every four months to less than five gallons per year; reducing waste ink from 15 to 20 pounds per year to less than five pounds per year; and, for recycling flourescent light bulbs.

"Minute Man Press is proof positive that a green economy translates into a good economy," said John P. DeVillars, administrator of the EPA's New England office. "We hope that others are inspired by businesses who take the initiative to clean up their act while showing that they don't have to sacrifice their bottom line in doing so."

Minute Man Press is a small commercial printer with four employees.

"Partners for Change" is open to any business, municipality or organized group in New England.

Small businesses are especially encouraged to apply. To be recognized as a partner, an organization must implement a project or activity that results in a long-term environmentally beneficial change to its daily operations. Such efforts can include waste reduction practices, recycling programs or other efforts that help green the work place.

In return for joining the program, Partners receive a certificate, window decal, and publicity from the EPA. In addition, Partners are featured in a partners-to-partners directory that lists all participating organizations.

To sign up for "Partners for Change," or for more information about the program call 1(800)906-3328. Request the "environmental pocketbook," a resource guide with useful tips on recycling, energy efficiency and waste reduction, as well as phone, e-mail and worldwide web listings of EPA help lines. The pocketbook also includes program requirements and an application.