U.S. EPA Official Discusses Sustainable Manufacturing with Area Manufacturers

Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce Hosts Roundtable

Jim Jones, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. EPA Official Jim Jones (second from left) addresses the business leaders at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce in downtown Flint.

(FLINT, MICH – FEBRUARY 22) Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) met with area manufacturers and business leaders to discuss the agency’s role in fostering sustainable manufacturing, lean manufacturing and increased energy efficiency in Flint-Genesee County.  U.S. EPA Official Jim Jones addressed the business leaders at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce in downtown Flint.

Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce says the EPA’s visit is important to help local businesses understand how the agency can support economic growth in the region.

“This is a great opportunity for local manufacturers to hear directly from the EPA,” said Herman.  “The roundtable provided an opportunity for two-way dialogue focused on the needs of area manufacturers and the assistance that the federal government can provide.”

Being able to discuss manufacturing issues and receive feedback from local manufacturers is important to the EPA, according to Jones.

“The bottom line is that we want to help manufacturers increase their energy efficiency, reduce waste production and increase profitability,” said Jones.  “By working with companies to reduce their environmental footprint, the EPA along with other federal agencies is on a mission to bolster sustainable American manufacturing through helping manufacturers impact their bottom line through efficiency.”

According to Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development for the Regional Chamber learning more about what the EPA has to offer will help enhance opportunities for local companies.

“The more we learn about how the EPA is working to clear the way for manufacturing, the better prepared we will be to provide guidance for businesses in Flint and Genesee County,” said Karcher.  “This meeting provides an important opportunity to hear directly from the EPA about programs that will help grow our base businesses.”

The EPA is one of several federal government departments charged by President Obama to support American sustainable manufacturing.  Flint is one of several cities being targeted for manufacturing support.

About the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce

The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce (www.flintandgenesee.org) is the voice of business and community advocacy in Genesee County. The Regional Chamber is over 100 years old, was established before the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and is a founding member of the United States Chamber of Commerce.

Two words describe the Regional Chamber as it enters its second century of service: collaboration and partnership. It is our goal to work with government, business, education and nonprofit organizations to support the growth and development of the community economically, culturally and socially.

Share: