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EPA WELCOMES LINCOLN 'PARTNER'

Release Date: 11/20/1997
Contact Information: Chris Jendras, EPA, (617)918-1845 Gerry Callahan, S & A Paramount Printing, (401)333-0800

BOSTON -- The Environmental Protection Agency has announced that S & A Paramount Printing in Lincoln, R.I. is a participant in the agency's new "Partners for Change" program, which encourages New England businesses and municipalities to explore and implement responsible environmental practices in return for EPA recognition.

The EPA is recognizing the company for significantly reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and for reducing the use of solvents. S & A Paramount Printing switched from using conventional inks to inks that contain very low VOCs. The company now uses water-based cleaning solutions. VOC emissions from the plant have fallen from 241 pounds per month to 26 pounds per month. The use of solvents has been reduced by 90 percent, from 37 gallons per month to 4 gallons. VOCs are an air pollutant that contribute to the formation of smog.

"The efforts undertaken by S & A Paramount Printing show that businesses can green the economy while staying in the black," said John P. DeVillars, administrator of the EPA's New England office. "I hope success stories like S & A Paramount's will inspire other regional businesses and municipalities to jump on board the environmental partnership train that is gathering steam in New England."

S & A Paramount Printing has 54 employees.

"Partners for Change" is open to any business, municipality or organized group in New England. Small businesses are especially encouraged to apply. To be recognized as a partner, an organization must implement a project or activity that results in a long-term environmentally beneficial change to its daily operations. Such efforts can include waste reduction practices, recycling programs or other efforts that help green the work place.

In return for joining the program, Partners receive a certificate, window decal, and publicity from the EPA. In addition, Partners are featured in a partners-to-partners directory that lists all participating organizations.

To sign up for "Partners for Change," or for more information about the program call 1(800)906-3328. Request the "environmental pocketbook," a resource guide with useful tips on recycling, energy efficiency and waste reduction, as well as phone, e-mail and worldwide web listings of EPA help lines. The pocketbook also includes program requirements and an application.