Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision (SDEV) has been awarded the 2012 Leadership Award from the EPA Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative. The annual award recognizes leaders across the Midwest whose actions have a real, lasting impact on air quality.
Since 2009, SDEV has partnered with local industry to reduce each company’s diesel air pollution. More than 13 local businesses and municipalities have invested over $3.7-million dollars of private funds and matching government grants to upgrade diesel equipment in Southwest Detroit and South Dearborn. The upgraded equipment includes diesel engines in boats, trucks and construction equipment. According to the EPA, every $1 spent on diesel emissions reduction produces $13 in health benefits.
“We’re grateful to our company partners for making such a positive impact to improve health in our community. Diesel pollution is one of the community’s top environmental priorities since we host heavy industry and truck traffic from the international border crossing.” said Kathy Stott, Executive Director of SDEV.
SDEV’s company partners include: JW Westcott, Marine One Towing, Edward C. Levy, Superior Materials, Churchill Transportation, DTE Energy, Ferrous Processing & Trading, Lakes Pilots Association, Red Cap Transport, and the City of Melvindale.
“SDEV is receiving this award for their tireless and enduring efforts to improve the community in Southwest Detroit” said Donna Davis, Manager of the State Clean Diesel Program at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. SDEV was nominated by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), on behalf of the Michigan Clean Diesel Coalition. Thanks to a generous sponsorship from Red Cap Transport, SDEV will be present in Chicago to accept the award.
SDEV is a nonprofit organization that has been working since 1992 to improve the environment and economy of Southwest Detroit by communicating environmental risks and solutions, being an advocate for better community development, and expanding common ground to address issues, including: air quality, contaminated sites, pollution prevention, blight and illegal dumping prevention, land use, environmental justice and environmental education in schools and the community. Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision, (313) 842-1961, SDEVweb.info@gmail.com,www.sdevweb.org.
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Source: Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision