KINGS MOUNTAIN, -- The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources on is recognize the Firestone Fibers & Textiles Company's plant in Kings Mountain as a 2012 Environmental Steward for its commitment to the environment.

According to press release, The award recognizes the Firestone facility's superior environmental performance, commitment to continued reduction of its environmental impact and demonstrated commitment to exceed compliance. The facility joins 16 other facilities in the state that have achieved this recognition.

"Companies like Firestone Fibers & Textiles show that industrial success and environmental stewardship can go hand-in-hand," said John Skvarla, secretary of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources. "The demonstrated solid waste reduction and creation of habitat for wildlife show this plant's commitment to continue balancing the needs of the environment with the demands of business."

The state's Environmental Stewardship Initiative, which promotes and encourages superior environmental performance, began in 2002. An Environmental Steward is an organization that has demonstrated leadership through its commitment to exemplary environmental performance beyond what is required by regulation. As an Environmental Steward, the organization commits to reporting annually on its environmental performance.

A 10-member advisory board appointed by the DENR secretary recommended recognizing the Firestone plant in Kings Mountain. The advisory board, which includes people from industry, government and environmental organizations, recognized the facility for achieving several environmental benchmarks.

 Those benchmarks include the facility's exemplary environmental compliance history, commitment to continue reducing waste by setting a zero waste-to-landfill goal and its 31 percent decrease in wastewater generated by the tire cord coating process. The facility also was recognized for its commitment to wildlife and native plant propagation. The Firestone facility established a pollinator garden and native grass and wildflower meadow that some local schools now use for educational purposes.

"We are incredibly honored to be selected as an Environmental Steward for the state of North Carolina," said Tim Bent, director of Environmental Affairs for Bridgestone Americas, Inc., Firestone Fibers & Textiles' parent company. "This award for environmental excellence is a testament to the exceptional team we have at our Kings Mountain facility. Each employee works to ensure we are always operating in the most sustainable and efficient manner."