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Universal and Illumination's Next Film Dr. Seuss' The Lorax Garners Support from Organizations and Businesses with a Common Goal of Natural Preservation

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:31:29 +0000

Universal and Illumination's Next Film Dr. Seuss' The Lorax Garners Support from Organizations and Businesses with a Common Goal of Natural Preservation

Third Feature from Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment Opens Worldwide Beginning in March

PR Newswire

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Partnerships & Licensing (UP&L) today announced that it will partner with several marquee brands around the globe along with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support the 3D-CG feature release of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax. This marks Universal's third collaboration with Chris Meledandri's Illumination Entertainment since the company was formed in 2007. Universal has also partnered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help engage the youth of America in environmental protection. The announcement was made by Stephanie Sperber, President, Universal Partnerships & Licensing.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120110/LA33027LOGO)

By bringing Dr. Seuss' messages from "The Lorax" to consumers, UP&L and its partners hope to help empower consumers, young and old, to make more informed choices for their families and the environment, as well as support smarter, environmentally-conscious choices in everyday life.

To date, Universal has 69 partners globally totaling $58.4 million in media value. Domestic partners include; The Environmental Protection Agency, Seventh Generation, Whole Foods Market, HP, Mazda, Comcast, DoubleTree by Hilton, Pottery Barn Kids, Stonyfield Farms, and, returning for its second partnership with Universal and Illumination Entertainment, IHOP. This marks the first-ever major studio film promotion for Whole Foods Market and Seventh Generation and the first ever on-pack promotion for Stonyfield Farms.

Internationally, a wide variety of partners include; Clean Up Australia, De Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, Eko Plaza Netherlands, Greenpeace Philippines, Natural History Museum of Milan Italy, Woodland Trust U.K. and World Wildlife Fund of Italy and Poland.

"For years The Lorax has been inspiring people of all ages to take part in protecting their environment. Dr. Seuss' classic is an enduring and meaningful story about how valuable our environment is, and how we all have a responsibility to protect it," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "The message of The Lorax goes hand-in-hand with the Energy Star program, which helps consumers take their own steps to cut energy use, shrink their carbon footprint and protect our planet."

"The Lorax is a special story about making better choices and finding balance from a visionary author who has touched the hearts and minds of millions of children and families throughout the world," said Sperber. "We're honored to be a part of Chris Meledandri's on-screen telling of this story and thrilled to have partners with promotional programs that will help foster awareness and dialogue around Seuss' important message in the film."

Highlights of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax partnerships include recognizable brands that many consumers interact with every day (in alphabetical order).

Comcast's Xfinity TV
Comcast's Xfinity TV service, which currently offers thousands of kids choices and is one of the most popular viewed genres, will bring a number of unique offerings to viewers as well as promote Dr. Seuss' The Lorax across its viewing platforms: Xfinity On Demand, XfinityTV.com and through the XfinityTV app. These offerings will be available across screens and will include special scenes from the film, environmentally themed messages from actors, behind-the-scenes interviews, and more. In addition, Xfinity TV will support the film's debut and offerings through a variety of mediums such as advertising, press outreach and social media.
DoubleTree by Hilton
DoubleTree by Hilton hotels believes in a vision that little things and small actions can collectively make a world of difference both in our hotels and the environment. A multi-platform promotional campaign, including collateral at more than 230 U.S. and Canadian DoubleTree by Hilton hotels, will include two unique online sweepstakes from February 13 through April 29, 2012. The Tip Tree sweepstakes available on www.facebook.com/doubletree includes weekly movie and tree planting prize packs with a grand prize of a 2-night vacation (hotel accommodations, transportation and airfare for two included to any U.S. and Canada DoubleTree by Hilton hotel destination). The Eco-Trip sweepstakes available at www.doubletree.com/thelorax will feature a grand prize trip for four (airfare and accommodations included) to a DoubleTree by Hilton destination in Costa Rica.
EPA
Universal and The Lorax are joining forces with EPA to protect the climate with "Team ENERGY STAR." The youth engagement initiative will include a PSA that features the film-based creative of the beloved Seuss story, as well as other youth outreach and educational materials starring The Lorax to help educate America's youth about how they can help their families save energy at home.
HP
HP is committed to responsible global citizenship throughout the organization, from conscientious product design and manufacturing to innovative materials use and support of progressive educational and environmental initiatives. In support of the movie sponsorship, HP encourages consumers globally to "Print Like The Lorax" by making eco-conscious choices when printing, such as responsibly sourced paper, energy-efficient printers and cartridges made with recycled plastics. Joining Universal and others in this endeavor is an extension of HP's longstanding commitment to sustainability, environmentally friendly products and worldwide environmental leadership. HP's participation elements include a national extension in-school program with Scholastic, which pairs science-based education materials with a writing contest that offers students the chance to win a $10K scholarship and other great prizes. Additionally, HP is unveiling a Dr. Seuss' The Lorax themed printer App and Widget and easy access to Lorax content via in-store activations and dedicated online locations.
IHOP
Following a hugely successful partnership with Illumination's first film Despicable Me, IHOP is back bringing another fun and appetizing menu of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax themed items. Available for a limited time, the menu will offer adults and children a range of new items including The Lorax's Breakfast (Green Eggs & Ham), Rooty Tooty Bar-ba-looty Cone Cakes, Truffula Chip Whole Wheat Pancakes and Mac 'n Cheese & Truffula Trees. All of IHOP's kids' menu items are under 600 calories. To demonstrate how one person can make a difference, IHOP restaurants nationwide will provide Dr. Seuss' The Lorax themed activity books and bookmarks with seeds to encourage families to help IHOP reach its goal of planting 3 million trees. A substantial television campaign featuring custom animation, along with multiple point of sale items and a microsite on IHOP.com round out this program.
Mazda
Mazda celebrates through the launch of its all-new SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, which is Mazda's new generation of green car innovation that improves fuel efficiency without compromising performance. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY can be found in Mazda's 2012 Mazda3 and the all-new 2013 CX-5 small crossover SUV, which boasts the best highway fuel mileage – 35 mpg – of any SUV sold in the U.S. Mazda's program is led by fully integrated television spots featuring 100 percent custom animation. In addition, the promotion includes the "NEA Lorax Reading Tour: Driven by Mazda" cross-country tour to visit public schools, Mazda dealerships, news media, and other stops to promote the reading of Dr. Seuss' book "The Lorax."
Pottery Barn Kids
The Lorax will make in-store appearances at select Pottery Barn Kids locations during the film's opening weekend with Lorax mustaches being distributed as part of planned "Read Across America" events at all Pottery Barn Kids locations nationwide during that same timeframe. Lorax themed activities, including movie ticket giveaways, will be featured on the official Pottery Barn Kids Facebook page. For more information please visit http://www.potterybarnkids.com/customer-service/store-events.html?cm_type=fnav.
Seventh Generation
Since 1988, Seventh Generation has provided environmentally-friendly household and personal care products that help consumers lessen their impact on the planet. The company derives its name from the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy that states, "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations." Through Earth Month this year, Seventh Generation is encouraging their consumers to consider products that are "Lorax Approved." At the cornerstone of their promotion, Seventh Generation will unveil a new liquid laundry detergent bottle made from 100 percent recycled cardboard and newspaper. The container, which prominently features Lorax images, uses 66 percent less plastic than typical 100 ounce 2X detergent bottles, allowing consumers to conserve effortlessly. Every time you use a Seventh Generation product you are making a difference by saving natural resources, reducing pollution, and making the world a better place for this and the next seven generations. More than 13 million units of custom Lorax packaging across cleaning, dish, laundry, paper and baby products will move through Seventh Generation's retail channels. Additionally, the company's print and digital campaigns across national publications, websites and retail promotions will work to educate their consumers about sustainability, and introduce a new generation to healthy solutions for the air, surfaces, fabrics, pets and people within the home—and for the community and environment outside of it. To learn more about Seventh Generation visit http://www.seventhgeneration.com.
Stonyfield YoKids Yogurt
Organic yogurt leader Stonyfield has created an online destination (www.YoKidsYogurt.com) for kids and parents that features a Lorax-themed memory game, "Planet Protector," tips to teach kids about ways they can take care of the Earth, and a contest offering a chance to win an organic garden for one local community. The program will be supported through on-pack stickers on all YoKids yogurt packs, including new YoKids Greek yogurt launching in February, as well as 4 million Stonyfield adult yogurt cup lids. Stonyfield will also distribute co-branded Lorax signage to 500 participating retail accounts and support the program through social media and email blasts.
Whole Foods Market
In its first-ever partnership with a major film studio, Whole Foods Market and Universal Pictures are teaming up to give kids with a passion for the planet a chance to win a private hometown screening of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax through their "Kids for Our Planet" Facebook contest. Parents or teachers can enter a child or group of children who are actively making a difference by caring for the environment. In addition to the "Kids for Our Planet" contest, Whole Foods Market will have in-store signage, an online presence through their official Facebook page and run promotions coinciding with the movie launch, including ticket giveaways.

International highlights include (in alphabetical order).

Clean Up Australia
A leading independent charity focusing on environmental preservation and conservation, Clean Up Australia works with the communities, governments and businesses to provide practical solutions to help people live more sustainably every day. As part of their partnership with Universal, the first ever joint campaign for Clean Up Australia with a film, Clean Up Australia plans to launch their inaugural "Greenest Kids Award" which will include educational programs in schools as well as in-theatre activities.
De Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
One of the oldest Botanical Gardens in the world, De Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam has more than 4,000 plant species growing in their garden and greenhouses including several endangered trees. In celebration of the Lorax, De Hortus will be creating a special tree route within the Garden. Additionally, children will be given a Lorax flyer before starting the route which will contain a quiz with questions children can answer for a chance to enter and win prizes.
Eko Plaza Netherlands
Eko Plaza is the leading Organic supermarket chain in Benelux. All products are organic and company processes focus on sustainability including such innovative strategies as using environmentally-friendly beetroot juice to cool their cold stores and freezer rooms. The Lorax campaign, a first for this retailer, will highlight the importance sustainability, and will be featured both in store and online.
Greenpeace Philippines
Greenpeace is a global organization that acts to change attitudes and behavior, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace. In the Philippines, the Lorax promotion is a first for Greenpeace who has never before partnered with an animated film in South East Asia and will be featured in their "Be a Part of Saving the Environment" campaign with a percentage of Lorax ticket sales being donated to Greenpeace's Tree Planting Initiative at Arroceros Forest Park.
Natural History Museum of Milan Italy
The mission of the Museum and its dedicated team is to get children, young people and families closer to the world of nature in a positive and interactive approach, by helping them better understand, love and respect the world in which they live. The partnership with the Lorax is the Museum's most important activity of 2012, and the campaign will educate museum-goers as well as school children about the importance of protecting nature via in-museum materials as well as a toolkit to be sent out to schools. The toolkit will contain interactive, educational materials and encourage participation in a Lorax-themed project for which the school may then be entered into a contest for the chance to win school equipment such as computers and scanners. A selection of the best works will also be displayed in the Museum on a special day with Lorax-themed activities.
Woodland Trust U.K.
U.K.'s leading woodland conservation charity, Woodland Trust cares for more than 1,000 woods over 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres). Woodland Trust and the Lorax have partnered to support the Jubilee Woods project with a goal of planting 6 million trees.
World Wildlife Fund (Italy and Poland)
World Wildlife Fund's (WWF) vision is to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature. The world's leading conservation organization, WWF works in 100 countries and is supported by close to 5 million people globally. In collaboration with educational departments and schools in Italy and Poland, the WWF and the Lorax will educate the upcoming generation about the importance of nature and the environment. In Italy, the campaign will focus on planting seeds and trees in one of the habitats protected by the WWF and in Poland, school children will have the chance to enter a competition by producing a short documentary about WWF's Earth Hour and eco-centric message of their choosing.

About Dr. Seuss' The Lorax
From the creators of Despicable Me and the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes the 3D-CG feature Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, an adaptation of the classic tale of a forest creature who shares the enduring power of hope. The animated adventure follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.

Danny DeVito lends his vocal talents to the iconic title character of the Lorax, while Ed Helms voices the enigmatic Once-ler. Also bringing their talents to the film are global superstars Zac Efron as Ted, the idealistic youth who searches for the Lorax, and Taylor Swift as Audrey, the girl of Ted's dreams. Rob Riggle plays financial king O'Hare, and beloved actress Betty White portrays Ted's wise Grammy Norma.

Dr. Seuss' The Lorax is the third feature created by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment (Despicable Me, Hop). www.theloraxmovie.com

About Universal Partnerships & Licensing
UP&L oversees Universal's consumer product licensing, film and home entertainment promotions, and all corporate alliances for Universal's theatrical, home entertainment, theme parks and stage productions. This dedicated division is also responsible for monetizing the Studio's vast library of films and characters through licensing, branding and marketing opportunities. UP&L is part of NBCUniversal. NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake.

SOURCE Universal Pictures

Turner Construction Company's Net Zero School Featured at Arizona State University Symposium

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Turner Construction Company's Net Zero School Featured at Arizona State University Symposium

Colonel Smith Middle School at Fort Huachuca Serves as Example of Sustainability

PR Newswire

PHOENIX, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Turner Construction Company is pleased to announce that its Net Zero construction project, Colonel Smith Middle School at Fort Huachuca, AZ will be featured at a one-day symposium at ASU on Friday, February 10, 2012. Sponsored by the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) and the Global Institute of Sustainability (GIOS), the one-day symposium is titled, "What's Next for Sustainable Schools and Communities?" Colonel Smith Middle School will be featured at the event at 1:15pm as a prime example of sustainable building.

The new Colonel Smith Middle School complex will be the first Net Zero Energy Building in Arizona and 12th in the nation. The design, development, and construction team, including Michael Deane, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Turner Construction Company, will present information about the unique school and the strategies used to make the school generate more energy than it will consume on an annual basis.

The "What's Next for Sustainable Schools and Communities?" symposium will be at the Global Institute of Sustainability at Arizona State University (Wrigley Hall, 800 S. Cady Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281). The event will explore the issues that K-12 schools face when working to achieve sustainability, such as rising operations costs, lack of funding, a need to develop curriculum around sustainability, and difficulties in connecting with their communities on sustainability initiatives. Contributing sponsors include Turner Construction Company, Tandus, and Orcutt|Winslow.

The Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) is the only professional organization whose principal purpose is improving the places where children learn. To learn more, visit www.cefpi.org.

The Global Institute of Sustainability is the hub of Arizona State University's sustainability initiatives. The Institute advances research, education, and business practices for an urbanizing world, and is the first of its kind in the U.S. To learn more, visit http://sustainability.asu.edu.

Turner Construction Company maintains a network of offices in North America including an office in Arizona. The company offers clients the accessibility and support of a local firm with the strength, stability and resources of a global corporation. Turner Construction Company is a leader in all major market segments of the building construction field. To learn more, visit www.turnerconstruction.com/tempe.

Contact: Beth Binger
BCIpr
Cell: (619) 987-6658
beth.binger@BCIpr.com

SOURCE Turner Construction Company

Hanfeng Evergreen Inc. Announces Board of Director Changes

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:20:00 +0000

Hanfeng Evergreen Inc. ("Hanfeng" or the "Company") (TSX:HF) announced today that Agrium Inc.'s ("Agrium") nominees to the Company's Board of Directors, Andrew Mittag and Joni Paulus, have resigned from the Board of Directors of Hanfeng, effectively immediately.

"On behalf of the Board of Directors and management of Hanfeng, we would like to thank Joni and Andrew for their support and contributions to the Company as directors," stated Loudon Owen, Chair of the Board for Hanfeng.

As announced earlier today by Agrium, Agrium will be retaining their equity investment in Hanfeng.

About Hanfeng Evergreen Inc.

Hanfeng is a leading producer and supplier of value-added fertilizer solutions in emerging markets. It is the largest producer of slow and controlled release fertilizer in two of world's most significant agricultural markets: the People's Republic of China ("China") and the Republic of Indonesia. As the first company to introduce slow and controlled release fertilizers into China's agriculture market, Hanfeng has established itself both as a market leader and innovator. A Canadian Company, Hanfeng is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker HF.

www.hanfengevergreen.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations. Forward looking statements include, without limitation, statements evaluating market and general economic conditions, and statements regarding growth strategy and future-oriented projected revenue, costs and expenditures. Actual results could differ materially from those projected and should not be relied upon as a prediction of future events. A variety of inherent risks, uncertainties and factors, many of which are beyond Hanfeng's control, affect the operations, performance and results of Hanfeng and its business, and could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations of estimated or anticipated events or results. Risks and uncertainties about Hanfeng's business are more fully discussed in the Company's disclosure materials, including its annual information form and MD&A, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada. Hanfeng undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or for any other reason. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Hanfeng Evergreen Inc.
Niral V. Merchant
Chief Financial Officer
+1 (416) 368-8588
nmerchant@hanfengevergreen.com
www.hanfengevergreen.com
Kevin O'Connor
Investor Relations
+1 (416) 962-3300
ko@spinnakercmi.com

RecycleMania Kicks Off 2012 Collegiate Recycling Competition

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:15:00 +0000

RecycleMania Kicks Off 2012 Collegiate Recycling Competition

PR Newswire

– 12th Annual Tournament Taps Campus Rivalries to Promote Conservation –

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- RecycleMania springs back into action as college campuses compete to see who can reduce, reuse and recycle the most on-campus waste. For an eight-week period, beginning in early February and running parallel to the NCAA basketball tournament, colleges and universities take part in an exciting competition that increases recycling participation by students and staff, and raises awareness about the significance of waste reduction programs on campuses.

From Feb. 5 through March 30, 2012, 605 schools representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia and five Canadian provinces will compete in nine categories to see who recycles the most on a per capita basis, who produces the least amount of waste and who recycles the largest percentage of their overall waste stream. Colleges and universities choose to participate in either the formal competition which ranks them based on standardized weight measurements, or as part of the less formal "Benchmark" division. In both cases, schools submit weight data for paper, cardboard, cans and bottles, food waste and general trash each week, and are, in turn, able to see how they measure up against each other in the continuously updated results. The 2012 tournament will feature a new electronics category, as well as a promotional video contest at www.youtube.com/recyclemania based on a "Spirit of Recycling" theme. This year's competition also coincides with the re-launch of the RecycleMania website (www.recyclemaniacs.org).

"RecycleMania's power comes from the way it taps school spirit to motivate students who may not react to a traditional environmental message," according to Bill Rudy, Recycling Manager at Brigham Young University and President of RecycleMania, Inc.

Indeed, RecycleMania is about more than simply winning. It is an opportunity for schools to raise awareness about their campus recycling programs as well as waste reduction and conservation issues in general. And, of course, it's also about simply recycling more. In 2011, 630 participating colleges and universities collected over 91 million pounds of recyclables and compostable organics. This prevented the release of 127,553 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2E) into the atmosphere. Top schools in the competition included California State University, San Marcos in the Grand Champion category, Union College of Schenectady, N.Y. in the Per Capita Classic, and North Lake College of Irving, Texas, winner of the Waste Minimization category.

"Promoting sustainability to students on college campuses forms a prelude to an environmentally-conscious adulthood," said Matthew M. McKenna, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. "Our organization is thrilled to play a role in RecycleMania as both a sponsor and an administrator of the program."

The RecycleMania competition began in 2001 as a challenge between Miami University of Ohio and Ohio University. Today, it is independently owned by RecycleMania, Inc., which is governed by a steering committee made up of recycling managers from participating universities. Program management for the 2012 RecycleMania Tournament is provided by the national nonprofit Keep America Beautiful.

The competition is made possible with the sponsorship support of Alcoa, The Coca-Cola Company, SCA Tissue, Waste Management, the American Forest & Paper Association and HP.

"In the U.S., we have an enormous opportunity to improve our environmental footprint by recycling more of what we consume. When recycled, a can of soda is back on the shelf in just 60 days," said Paula Davis, President, Alcoa Foundation. "RecycleMania draws upon the energy of Millennials and their passion for 'greener' living to mobilize their peers to reduce waste. Together with Keep America Beautiful, we will reach more than 600 campuses and thousands of students with the message that everyday actions can make a difference. We are proud to support this initiative and excited to see how creative schools get as they vie for bragging rights to the number one spot."

"Recycling is good for all of us – it saves energy, conserves natural resources, and reduces the need for landfill space," said Alain Robichaud, President of Coca-Cola Recycling LLC. "Recycled beverage containers can be made into new cans and bottles, plus all sorts of products you might never expect – apparel, backpacks, outdoor furniture and carpet are just a few examples. RecycleMania gives us the opportunity to remind college students about the good things that happen when they recycle."

"Because of SCA's commitment to sustainability, programs like RecycleMania are important to us and connect with our core values," said Joe Russo, Vice President Sales and Marketing, SCA AFH Professional Hygiene. "From our ongoing participation, we know this program brings awareness to the benefits of recycling. We hope it continues to establish lifelong habits and inspires others to get involved."

"We are thrilled with the long and successful relationship Waste Management has had with Keep America Beautiful, and are excited to once again support RecycleMania," said Paul Pistono, Vice President, Public Sector Solutions. "RecycleMania showcases Waste Management's ability to divert materials and improve recycling rates among colleges and universities. Our dedicated higher education team is very knowledgeable of the unique challenges and opportunities facing colleges and universities and WM has created solutions and programs specifically for this environment and to help improve diversion, drive toward zero waste, and make sustainability a way of life on campus."

Additional program support is provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WasteWise program and the College and University Recycling Coalition (CURC).

Who's Participating This Year

RecycleMania has grown to 605 colleges and universities this year. These colleges and universities represent more than 5.1 million students, and 1.1 million faculty and staff from 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. The states with the most participants include Pennsylvania (43), Texas (36), Massachusetts (41), New York (41) and California (30). The list of institutions taking part is diverse, ranging from Purdue University to UC-Berkeley to Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Mich.

A complete list of participants can be found at http://recyclemaniacs.org. Contact information for specific campuses is available to news media by calling (843) 278-7686 or emailing helpline@recyclemaniacs.org.

Contact: Robert Wallace, +1-203-659-3016, rwallace@kab.org or Alec Cooley, +1-843-278-7686, acooley@kab.org, http://recyclemaniacs.org

SOURCE Keep America Beautiful, Inc.

BPL Global Participates in Innovative Electric Vehicle Project

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

BPL Global Participates in Innovative Electric Vehicle Project

PR Newswire

PARIS, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- BPL Global®, Ltd. (BPLG), a smart grid technology company, announced today that it has joined forces with Freshmile, The Hager Group, FAM Automobiles and the University of Technology in Belfort-Montbeliard (UTBM) on the "Alsace Auto 2.0" project. The project will provide electric cars to end-users on a subscription basis, an electric mobility service. The service is designed to optimize the impact of electric vehicle charging on the electrical grid by aggregating the load and storage capacities of the batteries and managing their charging patterns.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101005/NE76664LOGO )

The Alsace Auto 2.0 project will demonstrate the benefits of electric mobility applied to rural commuting in the Alsace region of France. The project will roll out the electric mobility service for 50 electric vehicles. Connection points will be installed at home and at work for each commuter subscribing to the service. The cost of vehicle operation will be reduced by monetizing the load and storage capacities of the batteries, lowering the monthly subscription fee for each electric vehicle. The project also aims to validate the technical and economic approach behind the electric mobility service, validating the business model.

"Freshmile and BPL Global share the same vision for the value of mass market adoption of electrical vehicles without compromising the electricity distribution grid," said Pete Londa, CEO of BPLG. "Innovation in electric vehicles and advances in distribution automation technology as well as Freshmile's pioneering service offering should accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles."

BPLG's Connected Energy™ smart grid solution suite for advanced distribution automation will be used to manage the electric vehicle fleet as distributed load and storage resources on the electrical network. A distributed virtual power plant is created by managing both supply (vehicle-to-grid) and demand (grid-to-vehicle). Our software allows the electric vehicle load and storage capacities to be managed as ancillary services, peak shaving and valley filling for the local electric utility. Effective management of electric vehicle charging reduces the energy cost and minimizes potential disruptions to the electric grid. This makes operation of electric vehicles more affordable and supports a greater number of vehicles connected to the electric grid.

"Testing consumer acceptance for mobility as a service is one of the important objectives of this project," said Arnaud Mora, CEO of Freshmile. "We think that the trailblazing of grid-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-grid capabilities are crucial to providing cost effective services and demonstrating the distributed virtual power plant approach. Success of the electric vehicle for the mass market is only possible by ensuring smooth integration into the electrical grid and by removing acceptance barriers for users."

Leading the project, Freshmile operates the electric vehicle fleet and manages the battery charging cycles with BPLG's Connected Energy™ software solution, adapting to the needs of the energy market. Intelligent charging stations are from The Hager Group. The electric cars are provided by FAM Automobiles. The Transport & Systems Lab at the University of Technology in Belfort-Montbeliard (UTBM) brings it skills in automation and mobile data management and distributed computing. All components of the project are designed with an open architecture to facilitate integration into a collaborative system, achieving a distributed virtual power plant.

Delivering intelligent grid solutions to many of the largest utilities in the US, Europe and China, BPLG is a leading provider of smart grid technology from substations through customer premises. BPLG's substation solutions include our market leading transformer monitors as well as substation automation. The company's distribution solutions integrate management of distributed energy resources (DER) including managed load, energy storage, renewables, electric vehicle charging and distributed generation.

About BPL Global

BPL Global® (BPLG) provides electric utilities with a suite of smart grid solutions for advanced distribution automation from substations through customer premises. Electrical networks are transforming with a growing array of distributed energy resources (DER) at the edge. The DER Buildout™ underway includes managed load, energy storage, renewables, electric vehicle charging and distributed generation. Our solutions collaborate across the grid to enable the DER Buildout, helping utilities increase efficiency and reliability to improve their financial, operational and environmental performance. BPLG combines our experience in applying smart grid solutions with our market-leading technology to successfully serve leading utilities around the world. www.bplglobal.net

About Freshmile

Freshmile is an electric mobility operator and load aggregator. Freshmile develops technologies enabling the integration of electric vehicles into the electrical grid, in order to reduce the cost for users and to minimize the environmental impact of electric mobility.

Headquartered in Strasbourg, Freshmile has developed the "Alsace Auto 2.0" demonstration project, pioneering the approach of mobility as a service.

Freshmile's team relies on strong competences acquired in the fields of power plant development, cleantech and financial mathematics.

Freshmile®, Auto 2.0® and Car 2.0® are registered trademarks of Novae Alsace.

ComRent Opens Load Bank Rental Service Center in Brazil

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Leading Global Load Bank Rental Provider Partners With Poit Energia in Sao Paolo to Service Oil & Gas, Industrial, Utilities, Wind Farm and Data Centers in Brazil, Chile and Peru

ComRent, the leading provider of load bank rental solutions, has opened a service distribution center in São Paolo, Brazil, in partnership with Poit Energia, the market leader in rental generators and temporary infrastructure in Latin America. Established in Brazil's capital city and serving all of Brazil, Chile and Peru, ComRent's joint venture with Poit Energia provides load bank rental and maintenance solutions for all power generating equipment used in data centers, utility substations, wind farms and oil and gas refineries.

"ComRent established the new Brazil service location in response to the increased demand for verification that electromechanical systems in high-performance buildings, utilities and mission critical facilities are operating at maximum efficiency and safety," said Paul Clewell, Vice President of Global Development for ComRent. "As the construction of high-performance facilities in this region continues to increase, we look forward to meeting the load bank testing needs of commissioning professionals."

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration's 2011 International Energy Outlook report, Brazil is the ninth-largest energy consumer in the world, and the third-largest in the Western Hemisphere, behind the United States and Canada. Businesses in this region must move quickly to leverage technology for developing more efficient power systems to keep consumption costs in check, including the deployment of new equipment or major upgrades to existing systems. These new investments will require commissioning to ensure that new and upgraded power equipment will perform as expected. ComRent's load bank rental solutions are the trusted choice for safe, accurate and reliable load bank testing that keeps the design, build and commissioning process on-time and on-budget.

"ComRent, with its global reach, unparalleled technology and know-how, and seasoned commercial and technical teams, has added a world-class layer of load bank testing capabilities to Poit's temporary energy solutions in South America," said Wilson Poit, President of Poit Energia. "From data center testing, to wind farm commissioning and power systems validation, Poit powered by ComRent now offers an unrivalled solution in the Brazil marketplace to new and existing customers. It is a pleasure for Poit Energia to be part of ComRent's robust market expansion."

ComRent offers customers access to one of the largest fleets of load bank and related equipment in the world, saving significant time and cost associated with procurement and delivery. In addition, ComRent can offer its proprietary, transportable medium-voltage load bank unit -- the first of its kind in the rental industry, available and ready for rent in South America. ComRent offers all load testing services and project support functions from a local team of engineers, technicians and managers. The ComRent team is uniquely qualified to ensure that load bank tests are successful, helping customers keep deadlines on project schedules, as well as adhering to project budgets. ComRent can meet virtually any load bank testing requirement, for any size project.

About ComRent International

Since 1997, ComRent International has been providing construction professionals and facility engineers with reliable, simulated electrical and thermal load banks, transformers, cables and switchgear to commission and test mission-critical electrical and mechanical systems in high-performance structures such as data centers, healthcare facilities, nuclear power plants, municipal wastewater treatment plants and commercial cruise ships. ComRent offers North America's largest inventory of load banks, transformers, switchgear and cables. Its load bank rental solutions and value-added consulting services help construction managers and facility engineers validate designs, installations, total system performance and even LEED compliance. With 18 global distribution centers strategically located across the U.S., Canada, Brazil and Saudi Arabia, ComRent makes it possible to quickly and cost-effectively identify potential power and performance issues in these environments -- where uptime is paramount to continued operation. For more information, please visit www.ComRent.com.

Media Relations Contact:
Michelle Barry
ComRent International
MBarry@comrent.com
(603) 570-7533
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ComRent

ComRent load banks are now available in Brazil for reliable commissioning of any high performance building.

VSEP System Transforms Landfill Leachate Into Crystal Clear Water for Reuse

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:50:00 +0000

VSEP System Transforms Landfill Leachate Into Crystal Clear Water for Reuse

PR Newswire

EMERYVILLE, Calif. and BUGA, Colombia, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- New Logic Research (NLR) announced today the successful commissioning of another VSEP landfill leachate treatment system. The vibrating membrane system is operating at a landfill in Buga, a city of 100,000 people located in western Colombia. The 20-hectare landfill receives 570 tons of household trash daily from eighteen municipalities in the area.

Landfill leachate is highly contaminated water that collects in the landfill liner beneath the trash. Using reverse osmosis membrane technology, the VSEP system transforms the landfill leachate into crystal clear water for irrigation. Whereas traditional membrane systems would be quickly and permanently coated by the strong contaminants in the leachate, the VSEP's patented vibration system prevents such adhesion, allowing pure water to pass through the membranes unimpeded.

According to NLR CEO Greg Johnson, the Colombian installation is the latest in a string of leachate installations in Central and South America: "While we've always enjoyed a global customer base, VSEP installations south of Mexico were few until fairly recently. Our current success is the result not only of increased regulatory enforcement, but the growth, talent and hard work of our distributor network."

Prior to the VSEP installation, rain threatened to overflow the seven leachate ponds at the landfill. With the VSEP system now working around the clock, pond levels are being reduced continuously. The next phase of the project (already in the planning stages) aims to expand the VSEP system by 100%.

Installation photo: http://bit.ly/wdfE9R

About New Logic Research

Headquartered in Emeryville, California, New Logic Research is the leading provider of high-performance membrane separation systems used in a wide variety of applications from pure water and wastewater treatment to chemical process clarifications. Now in its 25th year, New Logic has grown to meet the needs of its ever-expanding customer base, which includes major corporations from around the world. Today, New Logic provides a breadth of products and services for pure water and wastewater treatment, industrial and chemical processing, energy, and other industries. For more information, visit http://www.vsep.com.

Contact:
Josh Miller
jmiller@vsep.com
+1-510-655-7305 ext.210

This press release was issued through eReleases(R). For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE New Logic Research

Water-Wise Plant Information On the Go: Save Our Water Sponsors Sunset's Plant Finder; Launches New Mobile Site

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:27:00 +0000

Save Our Water (http://www.saveourh2o.org/) launched a new mobile-friendly version of its website today to coincide with sponsorship of Sunset Magazine's Plant Finder (http://plantfinder.sunset.com/sunset/plant-home.jsp) web-based tool. Sunset Magazine is also launching a mobile version of the Plant Finder, an online tool that allows gardeners to search the Sunset Western Garden Book's top 2,500 plants.

Save Our Water, a statewide water conservation program sponsored by the California Department of Water Resources and the Association of California Water Agencies, designed the new mobile site as a new way to help spread its "rain or shine, Californians need to save" message.

"We are delighted to be working with Sunset Magazine in our efforts to educate Californians about the need to save water," said Timothy Quinn, ACWA's executive director. "The Plant Finder is an excellent tool to help Californians pick water-wise plants that will thrive in their climate. In addition, our new mobile site gives people an easy way to get water conservation information on the go."

Save Our Water's research has shown that Californians believe that they use more water indoors than outdoors, when the opposite is true. As a result, outdoor water conservation has been a major focus for the program. Sunset's Plant Finder will help Californians choose the right plants for their climate. Users can:

Search plants by color, size, type, and growing needs.
Browse an A-Z plant list by common and botanical names.
Find your Climate Zone -- the key to knowing what plants thrive in your area.

Because experts say that more people will access the Internet via their mobile phone than on their computers, Save Our Water's mobile version of its consumer-friendly website will increase the reach of the program's message.

Sunset Magazine created the new mobile version of their Plant Finder to coincide with the launch of their newest edition of The Western Garden Book, the West's most trusted source of gardening information for more than 80 years. Save Our Water is the sponsor of the Plant Finder in 2012 and 2013.

For more ways to save and to learn more about the Save Our Water program, visit www.saveourh2o.org or follow us on Facebook or Twitter. Save Our Water is a partnership between the California Department of Water Resources (http://www.water.ca.gov/) and the Association of California Water Agencies (http://www.acwa.com/).

Sunset magazine (http://www.sunset.com/) is the premier guide to life in the West, covering the newest and best ideas in Western home design and landscaping, food and entertaining, and regional travel in 13 Western states. Sunset and sunset.com are part of the Lifestyle group of magazines and websites published by Time Inc., the largest magazine publisher in the U.S., and a leading publisher in the U.K. and Mexico.

Media Contacts:
Jennifer Persike
Association of California Water Agencies
916-441-4545 or 916-296-3981 (cell)
Email Contact

Waste Connections Reports Fourth Quarter Results and Provides 2012 Outlook

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:05:00 +0000

Waste Connections, Inc. (NYSE: WCN)

Q4 revenue of $379.8 million, up 13.0%
Q4 GAAP EPS of $0.34 and adjusted EPS* of $0.35, up 9.4%
Full year revenue of $1.51 billion, up 14.1%, and adjusted EPS* of $1.48, up 19.4%
Full year net cash provided by operating activities of $388.2 million
Full year free cash flow* of $254.5 million, or 16.9% of revenue
Increased regular quarterly cash dividend 20.0% to $0.09 per share
Expects continuing revenue and free cash flow growth in 2012
Expects to complete Alaska Waste acquisition in Q1 2012

Waste Connections, Inc. (NYSE: WCN) today announced its results for the fourth quarter of 2011. Revenue totaled $379.8 million, a 13.0% increase over revenue of $336.0 million in the year ago period. Operating income was $74.4 million, versus $67.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2010. Net income attributable to Waste Connections in the quarter was $38.0 million, or $0.34 per share on a diluted basis of 112.4 million shares. In the year ago period, the Company reported net income attributable to Waste Connections of $36.1 million, or $0.31 per share on a diluted basis of 115.3 million shares.

Adjusted net income attributable to Waste Connections in the quarter was $38.8 million*, or $0.35 per share*, adjusting for a loss on disposal of assets and acquisition-related costs expensed during the period. Adjusted net income attributable to Waste Connections in the prior year period was $36.7 million*, or $0.32 per share*, adjusting for acquisition-related costs.

Non-cash costs for equity-based compensation and amortization of acquisition-related intangibles were $8.2 million ($5.1 million net of taxes, or approximately $0.05 per share) in the quarter compared to $6.6 million ($4.1 million net of taxes, or approximately $0.04 per share) in the year ago period.

"We are extremely pleased with our results in the quarter and full year. Better than expected pricing growth in the quarter, increased special waste volumes, and tight cost controls helped cushion the impact of a 30% decline in recycled fiber values during the first half of the fourth quarter. Continued strength in core pricing growth, relative stability in municipal solid waste volumes, and recent modest increases in recycled fiber values should provide a good springboard into 2012," said Ronald J. Mittelstaedt, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We believe our margin expansion and double digit year-over-year growth in revenue, earnings per share and free cash flow in 2011 continue to reflect the benefits of our differentiated strategy."

Mr. Mittelstaedt added, "In 2011, we signed or completed acquisitions with approximately $200 million in total annualized revenue, a record amount for us that surpassed previous highs in 2009 and 2008. We believe acquisition activity could remain strong over the next few years due to increasing capital requirements in many markets to further segment the waste stream, seller concerns regarding wealth preservation, and recently announced divestitures. Our focus on exclusive and secondary markets and our disciplined deployment of capital will continue to guide us in navigating through these potential opportunities."

* A non-GAAP measure; see accompanying Non-GAAP Reconciliation Schedule.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, revenue was $1.51 billion, a 14.1% increase over revenue of $1.32 billion in the prior year. Operating income in 2011 was $317.1 million, up 16.4% from $272.4 million in the prior year. Net income attributable to Waste Connections in 2011 was $165.2 million, or $1.45 per share on a diluted basis of 113.6 million shares. In the prior year, the Company reported net income attributable to Waste Connections of $135.1 million, or $1.16 per share on a diluted basis of 116.9 million shares. Adjusted net income attributable to Waste Connections in 2011, was $167.6 million*, or $1.48 per share*, up 15.6% and 19.4%, respectively, compared to $145.0 million*, or $1.24 per share* in 2010.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, non-cash costs for equity-based compensation, amortization of acquisition-related intangibles, loss on the early redemption of the 2026 Notes (net of make-whole payment), and amortization of debt discount related to convertible debt instruments were $31.9 million ($19.8 million net of taxes, or approximately $0.17 per share), compared to $29.4 million ($18.2 million net of taxes, or approximately $0.16 per share) in the prior year.

2012 OUTLOOK

Waste Connections also announced its outlook for 2012, which assumes no change in the current economic environment and closing of the Alaska Waste acquisition on March 1st. The Company's outlook excludes the impact of any additional acquisitions and expensing of acquisition-related transaction costs, as well as costs incurred in connection with the relocation of the Company's corporate headquarters and equity compensation expense incurred in connection with the anticipated amendment of certain executive employment contracts. The outlook provided below is forward looking, and actual results may differ materially depending on risks and uncertainties detailed at the end of this release and in our periodic SEC filings. Certain components of the outlook for 2012 are subject to quarterly fluctuations.

Revenue is estimated to be approximately $1.615 billion.
Depreciation and amortization expense is estimated to be approximately 10.9% of revenue.
Closure and post-closure accretion expense is estimated to be approximately 0.15% of revenue.
Operating income is estimated to be approximately 21.0% of revenue.
Net interest expense is estimated to be approximately $52.0 million.
Effective tax rate is expected to be approximately 39.2%.
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests is estimated to reduce net income by approximately $1.2 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities is estimated between 24.5% and 25.0% of revenue.
Capital expenditures are estimated to be about $145 million.

CONFERENCE CALL

Waste Connections will be hosting a conference call related to fourth quarter results and 2012 outlook on February 8th at 8:30 A.M. Eastern Time. To access the call, listeners should dial 800-638-4930 (domestic) or 617-614-3944 (international) approximately 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time and ask the operator for the Waste Connections conference call, Passcode # 93823617. A replay of the conference call will be available until February 15, 2012, by calling 888-286-8010 (domestic) or 617-801-6888 (international) and entering Passcode # 74292680. The call also will be broadcast live over the Internet at www.streetevents.com or through a link on our web site at www.wasteconnections.com. A playback of the call will be available at both of these web sites.

Waste Connections, Inc. is an integrated solid waste services company that provides solid waste collection, transfer, disposal and recycling services in mostly exclusive and secondary markets. The Company serves more than two million residential, commercial and industrial customers from a network of operations in 29 states. The Company also provides intermodal services for the movement of cargo and solid waste containers in the Pacific Northwest. Waste Connections, Inc. was founded in September 1997 and is headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas.

For more information, visit the Waste Connections web site at www.wasteconnections.com. Copies of financial literature, including this release, are available on the Waste Connections website or through contacting us directly at (832) 442-2200.

* A non-GAAP measure; see accompanying Non-GAAP Reconciliation Schedule.

Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this release are forward-looking in nature, including statements related to: completion of the Alaska Waste acquisition and the expected timing thereof; expected revenues and cash flow growth; expected pricing growth, waste volumes and recycled commodity prices; expected levels of acquisition activity in the industry and the drivers of such activity; the Company's anticipated acquisition activity; the Company's focus on exclusive and secondary markets; the Company's deployment of capital; the impact of the relocation of the Company's corporate headquarters to The Woodlands, Texas; the impact of potential equity compensation expense in connection with the amendment of certain executive employment agreements and the execution of such amendments; and the Company's 2012 outlook and the components thereof included in this release. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those projected include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) our acquisitions may not be successful, resulting in changes in strategy, operating losses or a loss on sale of the business acquired; (2) a portion of our growth and future financial performance depends on our ability to integrate acquired businesses into our organization and operations; (3) competition for acquisition candidates, consolidation within the waste industry and economic and market conditions may limit our ability to grow through acquisitions; (4) we may be unable to compete effectively with larger and better capitalized companies, companies with lower return expectations, and governmental service providers; (5) we may lose contracts through competitive bidding, early termination or governmental action; (6) price increases may not be adequate to offset the impact of increased costs or may cause us to lose volume; (7) economic downturns adversely affect operating results; (8) our results are vulnerable to economic conditions and seasonal factors affecting the regions in which we operate; (9) we may be subject in the normal course of business to judicial, administrative or other third party proceedings that could interrupt or limit our operations, require expensive remediation, result in adverse judgments, settlements or fines and create negative publicity; (10) increases in the price of fuel may adversely affect our business and reduce our operating margins; (11) increases in labor and disposal and related transportation costs could impact our financial results; (12) efforts by labor unions could divert management attention and adversely affect operating results; (13) we could face significant withdrawal liability if we withdraw from participation in one or more underfunded multiemployer pension plans in which we participate; (14) increases in insurance costs and the amount that we self-insure for various risks could reduce our operating margins and reported earnings; (15) our indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition; we may incur substantially more debt in the future; (16) each business that we acquire or have acquired may have liabilities or risks that we fail or are unable to discover, including environmental liabilities; (17) liabilities for environmental damage may adversely affect our financial condition, business and earnings; (18) our accruals for our landfill site closure and post-closure costs may be inadequate; (19) the financial soundness of our customers could affect our business and operating results; (20) we depend significantly on the services of the members of our senior, regional and district management team, and the departure of any of those persons could cause our operating results to suffer; (21) our decentralized decision-making structure could allow local managers to make decisions that adversely affect our operating results; (22) we may incur charges related to capitalized expenditures of landfill development projects, which would decrease our earnings; (23) because we depend on railroads for our intermodal operations, our operating results and financial condition are likely to be adversely affected by any reduction or deterioration in rail service; (24) our financial results are based upon estimates and assumptions that may differ from actual results; (25) the adoption of new accounting standards or interpretations could adversely affect our financial results; (26) pending or future litigation or governmental proceedings could result in material adverse consequences, including judgments or settlements; and (27) if we are not able to develop and protect intellectual property, or if a competitor develops or obtains exclusive rights to a breakthrough technology, our financial results may suffer. These risks and uncertainties, as well as others, are discussed in greater detail in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. There may be additional risks of which we are not presently aware or that we currently believe are immaterial which could have an adverse impact on our business. We make no commitment to revise or update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances that may change.

- financial tables attached -

WASTE CONNECTIONS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
THREE AND TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010 AND 2011
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

		Three months ended December 31,						Twelve months ended December 31,
		2010			2011			2010			2011

Revenues		$	335,955		$	379,752		$	1,319,757		$	1,505,366
Operating expenses:
	Cost of operations		191,512			220,081			749,487			857,580
	Selling, general and administrative		39,395			40,914			149,860			161,967
	Depreciation		33,525			38,193			132,874			147,036
	Amortization of intangibles		3,782			5,276			14,582			20,064
	Loss (gain) on disposal of assets		(1	)		914			571			1,657
Operating income			67,742			74,374			272,383			317,062

Interest expense			(9,292	)		(12,571	)		(40,134	)		(44,520	)
Interest income			136			122			590			530
Loss on extinguishment of debt			-			-			(10,193	)		-
Other income, net			860			807			2,830			57
Income before income tax provision			59,446			62,732			225,476			273,129

Income tax provision			(23,011	)		(24,543	)		(89,334	)		(106,958	)
Net income			36,435			38,189			136,142			166,171
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests			(290	)		(231	)		(1,038	)		(932	)
Net income attributable to Waste Connections		$	36,145		$	37,958		$	135,104		$	165,239

Earnings per common share attributable to Waste Connections' common stockholders:
	Basic	$	0.32		$	0.34		$	1.17		$	1.47

	Diluted	$	0.31		$	0.34		$	1.16		$	1.45

Shares used in the per share calculations:
	Basic		114,212,664			111,504,918			115,646,173			112,720,444
	Diluted		115,327,440			112,410,495			116,894,204			113,583,486
Cash dividends per common share		$	0.075		$	0.09		$	0.075		$	0.315



WASTE CONNECTIONS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

				December 31,			December 31,
				2010			2011
ASSETS
Current assets:
	Cash and equivalents			$	9,873		$	12,643
	Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,084 and $6,617 at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively				152,156			176,277
	Deferred income taxes				20,130			20,630
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets				33,402			39,708
			Total current assets		215,561			249,258

Property and equipment, net					1,337,476			1,450,469
Goodwill					927,852			1,116,888
Intangible assets, net					381,475			449,581
Restricted assets					30,441			30,544
Other assets, net					23,179			31,265
				$	2,915,984		$	3,328,005

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable			$	85,252		$	95,097
	Book overdraft				12,396			12,169
	Accrued liabilities				99,075			106,243
	Deferred revenue				54,157			64,694
	Current portion of long-term debt and notes payable				2,657			5,899
			Total current liabilities		253,537			284,102

Long-term debt and notes payable					909,978			1,172,758
Other long-term liabilities					47,637			74,324
Deferred income taxes					334,414			397,134
			Total liabilities		1,545,566			1,928,318

Commitments and contingencies

Equity:
Preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 7,500,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding					-			-
Common stock: $0.01 par value; 250,000,000 shares authorized; 113,950,081 and 110,907,782 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively					1,139			1,109
Additional paid-in capital					509,218			408,721
Retained earnings					858,887			988,560
Accumulated other comprehensive loss					(3,095	)		(3,480	)
		Total Waste Connections' equity			1,366,149			1,394,910
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries					4,269			4,777
		Total equity			1,370,418			1,399,687
				$	2,915,984		$	3,328,005



WASTE CONNECTIONS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010 AND 2011
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands)

		Twelve months ended
		December 31,
		2010			2011


Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income		$	136,142		$	166,171
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
	Loss on disposal of assets		571			1,657
	Depreciation		132,874			147,036
	Amortization of intangibles		14,582			20,064
	Deferred income taxes, net of acquisitions		26,431			50,989
	Loss on redemption of 2026 Notes, net of make-whole payment		2,255			-
	Amortization of debt issuance costs		1,574			1,420
	Amortization of debt discount		1,245			-
	Equity-based compensation		11,331			11,879
	Interest income on restricted assets		(511	)		(454	)
	Closure and post-closure accretion		1,766			1,967
	Excess tax benefit associated with equity-based compensation		(11,997	)		(4,763	)
	Net change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions		15,916			(7,796	)
Net cash provided by operating activities			332,179			388,170

Cash flows from investing activities:
	Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired		(81,010	)		(258,352	)
	Capital expenditures for property and equipment		(134,829	)		(141,924	)
	Proceeds from disposal of assets		6,659			4,434
	Decrease (increase) in restricted assets, net of interest income		(2,552	)		351
	Increase in other assets		(2,492	)		(5,014	)
Net cash used in investing activities			(214,224	)		(400,505	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from long-term debt		483,253			592,500
	Principal payments on notes payable and long-term debt		(467,660	)		(421,872	)
	Change in book overdraft		279			(227	)
	Proceeds from option and warrant exercises		33,074			5,159
	Excess tax benefit associated with equity-based compensation		11,997			4,763
	Payments for repurchase of common stock		(166,320	)		(116,817	)
	Payments for cash dividends		(8,561	)		(35,566	)
	Tax withholdings related to net share settlements of restricted stock units		(3,783	)		(5,511	)
	Distributions to noncontrolling interests		-			(675	)
	Debt issuance costs		-			(6,649	)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities			(117,721	)		15,105

Net increase in cash and equivalents			234			2,770
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period			9,639			9,873
Cash and equivalents at end of period		$	9,873		$	12,643

ADDITIONAL STATISTICS

THREE AND TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011

(Dollars in thousands)

Internal Growth: The following table reflects revenue growth for operations owned for at least 12 months:

	Three months ended December 31, 2011
Core Price	3.0	%
Surcharges	0.8	%
Volume	(0.8	%)
Intermodal, Recycling and Other	0.0	%
Total	3.0	%

Revenue Breakdown:

		Three months ended December 31, 2011					Twelve months ended December 31, 2011
Collection		$	272,282		62.5	%	$	1,069,065		62.0	%
Disposal and Transfer			128,368		29.4	%		510,330		29.6	%
Intermodal, Recycling and Other			35,283		8.1	%		144,583		8.4	%
Total before inter-company elimination		$	435,933		100.0	%	$	1,723,978		100.0	%

Inter-company elimination		$	(56,181	)			$	(218,612	)
	Reported Revenue	$	379,752				$	1,505,366

Days Sales Outstanding for the three months ended December 31, 2011: 43 (27 net of deferred revenue)

Internalization for the three months ended December 31, 2011: 63%

Other Cash Flow Items:

	Three months ended December 31, 2011		Twelve months ended December 31, 2011
Cash Interest Paid	$	19,306	$	39,499
Cash Taxes Paid	$	20,625	$	52,729

Debt to Book Capitalization as of December 31, 2011: 46%

Share Information for the three months ended December 31, 2011:

	Basic shares outstanding		111,504,918
	Dilutive effect of options and warrants		364,953
	Dilutive effect of restricted stock units		540,624
	Diluted shares outstanding		112,410,495

NON-GAAP RECONCILIATION SCHEDULE

(in thousands)

Reconciliation of Adjusted Operating Income before Depreciation and Amortization:

Adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization, a non-GAAP financial measure, is provided supplementally because it is widely used by investors as a performance and valuation measure in the solid waste industry. Waste Connections defines adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization as operating income, plus depreciation and amortization expense, plus closure and post-closure accretion expense, plus or minus any gain or loss on disposal of assets. The Company further adjusts this calculation to exclude the effects of items management believes impact the ability to assess the operating performance of our business. This measure is not a substitute for, and should be used in conjunction with, GAAP financial measures. Management uses adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization as one of the principal measures to evaluate and monitor the ongoing financial performance of the Company's operations. Other companies may calculate adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization differently.

		Three months ended December 31, 2010			Three months ended December 31, 2011
Operating income		$	67,742		$	74,374
Plus: Depreciation and amortization			37,307			43,469
Plus: Closure and post-closure accretion			443			516
Plus/less: Loss (gain) on disposal of assets			(1	)		914
Adjustments:
	Plus: Acquisition-related transaction costs (a)		904			467
Adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization		$	106,395		$	119,740

As % of revenues			31.7	%		31.5	%



		Twelve months ended December 31, 2010			Twelve months ended December 31, 2011
Operating income		$	272,383		$	317,062
Plus: Depreciation and amortization			147,456			167,100
Plus: Closure and post-closure accretion			1,766			1,967
Plus: Loss on disposal of assets			571			1,657
Adjustments:
	Plus: Acquisition-related transaction costs (a)		2,081			1,744
Adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization		$	424,257		$	489,530

As % of revenues			32.1	%		32.5	%

____________________

(a)	Reflects the addback of acquisition-related costs.

NON-GAAP RECONCILIATION SCHEDULE (continued)

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Net Income per diluted share:

Adjusted net income and adjusted net income per diluted share, both non-GAAP financial measures, are provided supplementally because they are widely used by investors as a valuation measure in the solid waste industry. The Company provides adjusted net income to exclude the effects of items management believes impact the comparability of operating results between periods. Adjusted net income has limitations due to the fact that it may exclude items that have an impact on the Company's financial condition and results of operations. Adjusted net income and adjusted net income per diluted share are not a substitute for, and should be used in conjunction with, GAAP financial measures. Management uses adjusted net income and adjusted net income per diluted share as one of the principal measures to evaluate and monitor the ongoing financial performance of the Company's operations. Other companies may calculate adjusted net income and adjusted net income per diluted share differently.


		Three months ended December 31,				Twelve months ended December 31,
		2010		2011		2010		2011

Reported net income attributable to Waste Connections		$	36,145	$	37,958	$	135,104	$	165,239
Adjustments:
	Loss on extinguishment of debt, net of taxes (a)		-		-		6,320		-
	Acquisition-related transaction costs, net of taxes (b)		560		290		1,290		1,327
	Loss on disposal of assets, net of taxes (c)		-		567		776		1,027
	Impact of deferred tax adjustment (d)		-		-		1,547		-
Adjusted net income attributable to Waste Connections		$	36,705	$	38,815	$	145,037	$	167,593

Diluted earnings per common share attributable to Waste Connections common stockholders:
	Reported net income	$	0.31	$	0.34	$	1.16	$	1.45
	Adjusted net income	$	0.32	$	0.35	$	1.24	$	1.48

____________________

(a)	Reflects the elimination of costs associated with the early redemption of outstanding debt.

(b)	Reflects the elimination of acquisition-related costs.


(c)	Reflects the elimination of a loss on disposal of assets.

(d)	Reflects the elimination of an increase to the income tax provision associated with an adjustment in the Company's deferred tax liabilities primarily resulting from a voter-approved increase in Oregon state income tax rates.

NON-GAAP RECONCILIATION SCHEDULE (continued)

(in thousands)

Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow:

Free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, is provided supplementally because it is widely used by investors as a valuation and liquidity measure in the solid waste industry. Waste Connections defines free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities, plus proceeds from disposal of assets, plus or minus change in book overdraft, plus excess tax benefit associated with equity-based compensation, less capital expenditures for property and equipment and distributions to noncontrolling interests. This measure is not a substitute for, and should be used in conjunction with, GAAP liquidity or financial measures. Management uses free cash flow as one of the principal measures to evaluate and monitor the ongoing financial performance of the Company's operations. Other companies may calculate free cash flow differently.

	Three months ended December 31, 2010			Three months ended December 31, 2011
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	86,157		$	90,446
Plus: Change in book overdraft		653			710
Plus: Proceeds from disposal of assets		874			1,197
Plus: Excess tax benefit associated with equity-based compensation		3,061			262
Less: Capital expenditures for property and equipment		(48,708	)		(57,872	)
Less: Distributions to noncontrolling interests		-			-
Free cash flow	$	42,037		$	34,743

As % of revenues		12.5	%		9.1	%



	Twelve months ended December 31, 2010			Twelve months ended December 31, 2011
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	332,179		$	388,170
Plus/less: Change in book overdraft		279			(227	)
Plus: Proceeds from disposal of assets		6,659			4,434
Plus: Excess tax benefit associated with equity-based compensation		11,997			4,763
Less: Capital expenditures for property and equipment		(134,829	)		(141,924	)
Less: Distributions to noncontrolling interests		-			(675	)
Free cash flow	$	216,285		$	254,541

As % of revenues		16.4	%		16.9	%

CONTACT:
Worthing Jackman
(832) 442-2200
Email Contact

Mary Anne Whitney
(916) 608-8253
Email Contact

Volkswagen Chattanooga Becomes World's First LEED Platinum Automotive Manufacturing Plant with Design and Construction Management from SSOE Group

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:39:25 +0000

Volkswagen Chattanooga Becomes World's First LEED Platinum Automotive Manufacturing Plant with Design and Construction Management from SSOE Group

PR Newswire

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an international engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, along with Vertegy, announce their involvement in the success of first and only LEED® Platinum automotive manufacturing plant in the world. Volkswagen's Chattanooga manufacturing plant was recently awarded a Platinum certification, the highest designation possible from the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100917/SSOELOGO )

SSOE has successfully performed design work for more than 50% of all automotive assembly plants built in the United States over the last 10 years. Based on that experience, Volkswagen called upon SSOE to oversee the architecture, engineering, and construction management for this $1 billion+ production facility which produces the all-new 2012 Passat. Once it was determined to pursue LEED, SSOE performed the role of Project Team Administrator (PTA) and Design Lead for all LEED credits with Vertegy provided commissioning and third-party verification.

"Think Blue is Volkswagen's commitment to reach the highest level of environmental protection and corporate social responsibility in everything we do. It was this commitment that drove the team to strive toward designing, constructing, and applying for LEED accreditation. Being the first automotive plant worldwide to receive a Platinum certification is an enormous accomplishment and wouldn't have been possible without the innovative design and construction management of SSOE. Their LEED knowledge and expertise supported us in moving forward with the certification process and achieving the Platinum certification successfully," said Dr. Jan Spies, Head of Factory Planning, Volkswagen AG.

The Volkswagen manufacturing plant earned 52 points out of the 69 possible to earn the Platinum title in October. Sustainable highlights of the plant include:

Certification of the paint shop facility. Previous assembly plants have excluded their paint shop in the LEED certification process due to the complexity of the manufacturing process and the challenge of getting them certified. VW's sustainably designed paint shop will save more than 50 million gallons of water a year.
The construction team salvaged or recycled nearly 78 percent (4,602 tons) of construction and demolition waste.
48 percent of total building materials were manufactured using recycled materials.
Through low-flow water closets and urinals, the plant achieves a 58 percent reduction in potable water used for sewage conveyance. Additionally, the plant harvests rainwater from its roof that is collected for use in the sanitary waste system. Together, these strategies save 1.7 million gallons of potable water each year. Low-flow showers, lavatory and kitchen faucets further decrease potable water usage, resulting in total savings of more than 3 million gallons of potable water each year.
A white, reflective roofing material was installed on 100 percent of the roof area of the building, which reflects heat, lowering cooling costs and saving energy.
All exterior lights at the facility provide only the minimum lighting required for safety to ensure that light does not spill into the night sky, adversely affecting the surrounding nocturnal environments through excessive glare.
Measures to promote environmentally friendly commutes include the provision of bike racks for visitors and employees, availability of showers and lockers for employee use and preferred parking for those driving low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles and for those who carpool to the site.

The Volkswagen Academy was also certified by USGBC as a LEED Platinum facility earning 54 points of out 69 possible and received this designation in November. The Volkswagen Academy is used to train new employees for work at the plant.

In addition to the Volkswagen Chattanooga manufacturing plant, SSOE is also responsible for the first Gold LEED certified facility in the state of Ohio and first Gold LEED certified central utility plant in the U.S. Currently, SSOE has more than a dozen projects underway at various stages of the LEED certification process around the world and was ranked first nationally among green industrial and manufacturing design firms by ENR magazine.

About Volkswagen Chattanooga

Volkswagen will invest $1 billion in the local economy for the Chattanooga plant and create more than 2,000 direct jobs in the region. According to independent studies, the new Volkswagen plant is expected to generate $12 billion in income growth and an additional 9,500 jobs related to the project. The Chattanooga manufacturing facility builds the all-new 2012 Passat sedan, specially designed for the North American market and winner of the Motor Trend magazine 2012 Car of the Year award.

About SSOE Group

As the 14th largest engineering, architectural, and construction management firm (Building Design + Construction), one of Inc. magazine's fastest growing firms (2011), and one of the "Best AEC Firms to Work For" (Building Design + Construction), SSOE Group focuses on delivering Great Client Service to clients through a full range of EPCM services.

With 24 offices around the world, SSOE is known for making its clients successful by saving them time, trouble, and money. Over the company's 60-plus year history, it has earned a reputation for providing quality project solutions to food and consumer products, chemical, government, power, automotive, glass, healthcare, and science and technology industries. SSOE has completed projects in more than 30 countries. Visit www.ssoe.com for additional information and career opportunities.

Media Contact
Jenni Roder
SSOE Group
419.255.3830 x1362
419.351.6480 cell
jroder@ssoe.com

SOURCE SSOE Group

Mango Moving Forms Strategic Alliance With Bed Bugs and Beyond Consultants(R)

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

National moving company, Mango Moving, LLC, today announced a strategic partnership with Bed Bugs and Beyond Consultants®, a leading consultant in bed bug education who also coordinates and orchestrates bed bug treatment through its select network of service providers.

With increasing concerns surrounding bed bugs and a growing number of infestations in homes, hotels and even moving vans worldwide, moving is an ideal time for consumers to treat their belongings. The warm weather of peak summer moving season makes it a perfect environment for bed bugs to be potentially transmitted and carried during moves.

According to the CDC (Centers of Disease Control and Prevention), the best way to control bed bug infestation is regular inspections. As a select service provider, Mango Moving will offer customers discounted rates on bed bug treatment services, along with the transport of items to the fumigation center and re-delivery of treated items back to a customer's home -- a "one stop shop" to guarantee a bed bug free home.

"This alliance comes at an ideal time since industry experts are expecting that bed bug infestations will continue to rise this year," said Rob Vespa, Mango Moving COO. "We partnered with Bed Bugs and Beyond to provide our customers with a proactive solution to ensure that bed bugs don't travel with them to their new location. We're dedicated to providing our customers with the best moving experience possible -- which doesn't include pests."

Moving is an ideal time for Vikane fumigation since it has been scientifically proven to completely eliminate bed bugs or other target pests in a single treatment. It is safe for use on nearly all household items and an option for moving trailers, trucks and storage containers as well. Vikane is completely safe to humans outside of containment and has no negative environmental effects.

"Mango Moving is clearly committed to providing a safe and healthy moving environment for their customers," said Michael Batenburg, President and CEO of Bed Bugs and Beyond. "Partnering with us ensures that their customers have a single, nonbiased point of contact who can offer reputable services to completely eliminate bed bugs and other target pests."

About Bed Bugs and Beyond
Bed Bugs and Beyond is a nationally trusted, non biased full service firm offering 24/7 services of scientifically documented and validated immediate bed bug elimination, education, counseling and expert advice to obtain reputable service providers including Vikane Fumigation, K-9 Scent Detection, Traditional Pest Control and Moving/Preparation Services.
For more information, visit www.bedbugsandbeyond.com

About Mango Moving, LLC
Mango Moving, LLC, is a fully licensed and insured nationwide moving company and leading provider of affordable moving services and storage solutions. Working directly with our network of experienced transportation, packing and loading professionals, Mango can coordinate every aspect of your move or just the pieces that fit your needs to provide you with the very best moving experience. Every Mango move is backed by our exclusive Best Price, On-Time Guarantee, ensuring that a Mango move will be the best move you can make. For more information, visit www.mangomoving.com.

MC#737913 and MC#710933-B

Contact:
Mango Moving Marketing
Email Contact
1.888.330.0801
www.mangomoving.com

Frost & Sullivan Acclaims NETZSCH's Customer-Centric Business Goals That Resulted in Innovative Products and Solutions

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:25:00 +0000

End Users Across Various Verticals Appreciate the Technological Excellence and Flexibility of NETZSCH's Pump Solutions

Based on its recent analysis of the rotary positive displacement (PD) pump market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes NETZSCH with the 2011 Global Frost & Sullivan Award for Customer Value Enhancement. Befitting its status as a market leader, NETZSCH stands out for its customer focus and dedication to innovation. The company's novel products based on customer needs, increased performance and lower life-cycle cost through lower energy costs.

"NETZSCH differentiates itself from its competition by not only delivering innovative solutions for the water and wastewater segment, but also by identifying process challenges in nearly all industries and addressing them through tailored solutions," said Frost & Sullivan Senior Research Analyst Anand Gnanamoorthy.

It is the company's strategy to focus on especially demanding applications where their long-standing expertise in PD pumps benefit to their customers by offering innovative new products which target niche problems. Several examples are multiphase pumps for heavy oil transference, the B.Max pump for optimal blending before products enter the digester in the Biogas industry, pump systems specific to the fishmeal industry, and the company's recent development of pumping solutions for the mining industry.

One of the many prominent innovations from the company's product line is the M.Champ® series, which provides compact construction with robust performance in fluid handling. Its benefits include low pulsation, ability to handle fluids of varying viscosity without any changes in flow rate, and longer life.

Another exceptional product is the iFD-Stator®, which provides higher efficiency, longer stator life, and improved fluid handling. A pump with an iFD-Stator® delivers the same amount of flow as other brands of pumps, but uses up to 25 percent less energy. Moreover, this stator is designed with reusable components eliminating the problematic disposal of compound material to provide environmental protection which is supported by the German Environmental Foundation.

Apart from providing world-class products, NETZSCH also offers various consulting and custom-engineering solutions. The breadth of its solution portfolio and expertise accrued over 60 years enables NETZSCH to effectively support end users, contractors and engineering offices, who all acknowledge the company's ability to provide a total solution along with full service contracts.

In the PD pumps market, distributors account for 80 percent of total sales with direct sales comprising the remaining 20 percent. Consequently, most PD pump manufacturers lose the opportunity to interact with end users to better understand their unique process requirements. NETZSCH is an exception in the PD pump landscape, as it prefers direct sales where it is practical but also partners with factory-trained distributors.

"During the recent economic recession, many PD pump manufacturers downsized their sales force; NETZSCH, on the other hand, increased its sales force and R&D spending," said Gnanamoorthy. "This enabled the company to improve its presence and deliver more competence to customers across the world."

Moreover, due to its presence in emerging markets, NETZSCH was able to weather the recession more effectively than competitors that primarily focus on developed markets.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that demonstrates excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for customers with a focus on improving the return on investment. This award recognizes the company's focus on enhancing the value that its customers receive, beyond simply good customer service, leading to improved customer retention and, ultimately, customer base expansion.

Frost & Sullivan best practices awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstration of outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About NETZSCH

NETZSCH Pumps & Systems is one of the three business units within the German NETZSCH Group, an internationally operating, family-owned company, engaging in the manufacture of machinery and instrumentation with worldwide production, sales and service branches. Over 2500 employees at 130 NETZSCH-owned sales and production sites in 23 countries plus more than 200 distributors across the world guarantee that expert service is never far from the customer.

Netzsch is the only provider of positive displacement pumps who offers the full range of pump types from progressing cavity pumps, rotary lobe pumps, twin screw pumps, dosing systems, macerators and other equipment as well as specialized skids and systems for more information please visit www.netzsch.com

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages 50 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 40 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.

Contact:

Mireya Espinoza
P: 210. 247.3870
F: 210.348.1003
E: mireya.espinoza@frost.com

New scientific report concludes Anglo American's Pebble Mine is too risky for Bristol Bay, Alaska

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:15:00 +0000

New scientific report concludes Anglo American's Pebble Mine is too risky for Bristol Bay, Alaska

PR Newswire

PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The proposed Pebble Mine would siphon as much as 35 billion gallons of fresh water out of the headwaters of Bristol Bay, Alaska every year, eliminating critical salmon habitat. A new report, "Bristol Bay's Wild Salmon Ecosystems and the Pebble Mine: Key Considerations for a Large-Scale Mine Proposal," concludes the mine is too risky to be developed.

The report examines potential impacts of the proposed Pebble Mine on Bristol Bay's wild salmon fishery – the world's largest wild sockeye salmon run, with up to 40 million fish annually. Produced by the Wild Salmon Center and Trout Unlimited, the report details multiple concerns with excavating Pebble's massive deposit of copper, gold, and molybdenum.

Examining a wide body of scientific information, the report says too much is at stake ecologically, economically, and culturally to risk development.

"In addition to risks posed by the chronic leaching of contaminants or a catastrophic failure, the proposed mine would substantially alter the region's hydrology and salmon habitat," said Guido Rahr, President of the Wild Salmon Center.

Approval of the mine and its infrastructure will likely spur a much larger mining district, substantially increasing odds that mining will harm Bristol Bay's wild salmon, the report found. Pebble's infrastructure would enable mining claims covering 793 square miles, an area 10 times larger than Washington D.C. The report also presents case studies of mining companies polluting surrounding waters and leaving expensive cleanup costs to American taxpayers.

Preliminary information presented by developers indicates that Pebble Mine:

Contains ore with a high likelihood of generating acid mine drainage, which is severely harmful to salmon and other aquatic species;
Will produce up to 10.8 billion tons of waste rock, requiring miles of tailings dams which could reach 740 feet high; and
Will construct multiple sources of contamination, including an open pit and underground mine, an 86-mile road and pipeline route, and a deep-water port.

"The Pebble Mine proposal dwarfs all of the existing mines put together in Alaska and would have devastating consequences for salmon, and the wildlife and humans who depend on them," said Lance Trasky, retired Alaska Department of Fish and Game Regional Supervisor.

Full report at http://www.wildsalmoncenter.org/programs/north_america/pebblemine.php

Contact: David Finkel, Wild Salmon Center, 971-255-5568; dfinkel@wildsalmoncenter.org

SOURCE Wild Salmon Center

GlyEco Announces Acquisition of Glycol Recycler Recycool

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:31:00 +0000

GlyEco, Inc. (GLYE is listed on www.otcmarkets.com) (OTCQB: GLYE) (OTCBB: GLYE) today announced it has signed an asset purchase agreement to acquire certain assets of Recycool, Inc. (www.recycool.net). Recycool is the dominant recycler in the Minneapolis, MN area and has been collecting and processing waste glycol -- primarily used antifreeze -- into high quality recycled antifreeze since 1995.

Recycool was founded by Marty Rosauer, Kurt Rosauer and Dennis Scott, early pioneers of the antifreeze recycling industry. Today, the company services nearly 400 customers in and around the Twin Cities metro area and will report 2011 revenues of approximately $430,000. The company's customer base is focused on vehicle dealers and repair shops, quick lube facilities, and governmental entities.

The founders and Recycool recycling team will continue to operate the Minnesota plant.

"We are very excited to have the entire Recycool group join forces with our team," stated John Lorenz, Chairman and CEO of GlyEco, Inc. "They produce high quality recycled antifreeze and have a tremendous customer service ethic. Their depth of industry experience makes the business a great asset in our growth strategy."

This purchase marks the beginning implementation of GlyEco's strategy for rapid growth through the acquisition of existing profitable recyclers. The acquired facilities will be upgraded with patent-pending GlyEco Technology™, improving production capacity, product quality and profitability. The company expects to expand its customer base and geographical reach at each location.

GlyEco Technology™ is a breakthrough green chemistry solution for recycling used glycols. This is the only process that can cleanse all five major types of waste glycols to a superior level of purity allowing our customers to utilize recycled glycols as a more sustainable resource. GlyEco Technology™ gives our customers a way to reduce waste while caring for the environment at no additional cost to them.

GlyEco Technology™ ensures consistently clean, uniform quality recycled glycols with independent lab testing to document results. Our recycled materials are proved to meet or exceed ASTM (www.astm.org) purity standards.

Glycols are a liquid petrochemical produced in massive quantities and used primarily in five industries: HVAC, Textiles, Automotive, Airline and Medical. In the United States, these industries create approximately 700 million gallons of hazardous waste glycol each year. Although most of this waste could be recycled into useable products, over 85% of this liquid waste is disposed of in our surface waters -- which can have devastating results for aquatic life.

World-wide consumption for refinery produced ethylene glycol is over 5 billion gallons per year, with growth expected to exceed 350 million gallons every year for the next decade (Source: ICIS Chemical News). Demand in China exceeds supply and currently tops 2.1 billion gallons each year. The United States consumes over 700 million gallons of ethylene glycol each year. The man-made liquid chemicals are derived from crude oil and natural gas and produced from unrenewable and limited natural resources. As a base chemical, they are produced in massive quantities and used in many industrial applications.

Demand continues to exceed supply for ethylene glycol, largely because of explosive growth in poly fiber manufacturing to make clothing, plastic containers and plastic beverage bottles. This growth trend is expected to continue well into the future.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements regard the intent, belief, and expectations of the Company. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, they involve risks and uncertainties, and their results may differ materially.

CONTACT:
Investor Relations
ir@glyeco.com
Denise Pallozzi
858-925-3737

Hertz Launches Global Sustainability Strategy

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:23:00 +0000

Hertz Launches Global Sustainability Strategy

-- "Living Journey" represents Hertz's vision to integrate sustainability throughout its global operations --

PR Newswire

PARK RIDGE, N.J., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hertz Corporation (NYSE: HTZ), the world's largest general use car rental brand, introduced "Living Journey" today, the Company's corporate sustainability strategy. Living Journey positions Hertz to be the leader in Sustainable Mobility and Equipment Solutions through various strategic initiatives that integrate sustainability best practices throughout the Company including:

Smart Mobility—Hertz is committed to providing customers vehicle rental options that are fuel efficient and use clean, low-emissions technology such as Electric Vehicles (EVs) and hybrids.
Environment—Hertz's goal is to minimize its environmental footprint and operating costs through efficiency improvements, resource management and renewable energy production.
Community—Hertz is dedicated to creating a positive impact and enhancing the communities it serves by giving back through philanthropic and volunteer efforts.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110810/NY50373LOGO )

"Sustainability has always been part of the culture at Hertz. We have a long-standing tradition of innovation and leadership that includes managing the environmental performance and social impacts of the Company alongside our fiscal responsibilities," said Mark P. Frissora, Chairman and CEO of Hertz. "In 2011, we made tremendous progress on Hertz's industry-leading solar generation and Electric Vehicle initiatives in addition to ongoing efforts to operate in an environmentally responsible manner at our corporate offices and rental facilities. As a continuation of our success, we are excited to introduce Living Journey which encompasses all of our efforts as an organization through partnerships, employee education and investments to reduce our impact on the environment, provide customer value, and manage our business sustainably."

Through Hertz's sustainability efforts, the Company has:

Recycled over 50,000 IT units since 2005 which diverted 2 million tons of e-waste from landfills,
Recycled approximately 680,000 gallons of used oil in 2011, and
Reduced paper use by 2.8 million pounds since 2006.

In addition, more than 80% of the water used at Hertz car washes is recycled. The Company is currently implementing energy audits and lighting upgrades across many of its facilities. Estimated results from recent lighting upgrades include 1.1 million kilowatt-hours and 776 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved annually (across 20 Hertz locations).

To communicate Living Journey to its stakeholders, Hertz has launched a sustainability website (http://www.hertzlivingjourney.com) which is the first of its kind for the Company. The site highlights Hertz's achievements and plans in the sustainability arena, which includes energy-efficiency improvements such as lighting and HVAC upgrades, utilizing LEED certification standards for Hertz buildings, solar energy production, global recycling efforts, and delivering fuel-efficient fleet choices to consumers.

Last year, Hertz was recognized by the Global Business Travel Association for Sustainable Practice through Hertz On Demand, Hertz's hourly car rental program.

Living Journey initiatives will be rolled out globally by divisions of The Hertz Corporation including Hertz Rent A Car, Hertz On Demand, Hertz Equipment Rental, Hertz Entertainment Services, and Donlen.

About Hertz
Hertz is the largest worldwide airport general use car rental brand operating from approximately 8,500 locations in approximately 150 countries worldwide. Hertz is the number one airport car rental brand in the U.S. and at 94 major airports in Europe, operating both corporate and licensee locations in cities and airports in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. In addition, the Company has licensee locations in cities and airports in Africa and the Middle East. In addition, Hertz operates one of the world's largest equipment rental businesses, Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation, offering a diverse line of rental equipment, including tools and supplies, and new and used equipment for sale from approximately 320 branches in the United States, Canada, France, Spain, Italy, China and Saudi Arabia, as well as through its international licensees. In late 2008, Hertz introduced a global car-sharing service, now referred to as Hertz On Demand, where customers can rent by the hour from various locations in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Hertz also owns Donlen Corporation, based in Northbrook, Illinois, which is a leader in fleet leasing and management services.

SOURCE Hertz Corporation