Chrysler Group LLC's Trenton (Mich.) South Engine Plant was presented with The Michigan Plaque on October 15 in recognition of the plant's landscaping enhancements, helping make it one of the most environmentally-friendly facilities in the world. The Michigan Plaque is awarded by Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc., a non-profit organization that encourages the improvement of environmental quality across the state.
Trenton South, which builds the all-new Pentastar V-6 engine, was designed for both efficient manufacturing and minimal environmental impact. Built on a brownfield site (abandoned or underused industrial and commercial areas available for re-use), the facility was constructed to embrace the highest environmental standards to address the complete lifecycle of the complex. Carefully selected native trees, bushes and grass were placed around the facility to help cool the building and were specifically chosen because they require less water.
"The Trenton South Engine Plant continues to lead the way in efficient, eco-friendly designs both inside and out," said Scott Garberding, senior vice president and head of manufacturing, Chrysler Group LLC. "As a company, we are very proud of this plant. This award is a reflection of the attention to detail that we are designing not only into our plants, but into every vehicle that we build."
Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc. annually recognizes programs and activities that substantially contribute to environmental improvement, beautification, site restoration and historical preservation. Approximately 10 recipients are presented with The Michigan Plaque every year.
"We are honored to have been recognized by Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc. on our environmental contributions to the state and the planet," said Don DeKeyser, Trenton South plant manager. "World Class Manufacturing is a system designed to eliminate waste and that's precisely what we demonstrate at this facility."
The Michigan Plaque is the second award received by the Trenton South plant for its environmentally-friendly design. In March, the facility was recognized with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Green Building System certification for meeting the highest environmental standards. It is one of only four auto manufacturing facilities to receive a LEED rating of any kind and the only engine manufacturing facility in the world to achieve Gold status.
Additional contributing environmental improvements at the plant include higher performance insulation, more efficient manufacturing processes, and higher efficiency fluorescent lighting, and heating and cooling systems. Chrysler also continues its commitment to Zero-Waste-to-Landfill processes at Trenton South, which will divert more than 670 tons of waste from landfills.
