U.S.-based Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company (SFNTC) has been awarded “Steward” status by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), according to a note posted on the company’s website.
“The Steward designation is the highest in the department’s Environmental Stewardship Initiative,” the note said. “It acknowledges that SFNTC has shown exemplary environmental performance and has gone beyond what is required by law to operate sustainably, conserve natural resources and ultimately promote economic growth in North Carolina.
“To achieve Steward status, organizations undergo a rigorous review. Applications are evaluated by those with a high level of expertise, including state regulators, as well as other Steward organizations. Steward status puts SFNTC into a select group in the state that includes Daimler Trucks North America, Firestone Fibers & Textiles, Michelin Aircraft Tire Company and Thomas Built Buses Inc.”
“Companies such as Santa Fe Natural Tobacco show that economic success and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand,” said John Skvarla, the secretary of DENR. “The demonstrated solid waste reduction, energy reduction and creation of habitat for wildlife show this plant’s commitment to balancing the needs of the environment with the demands of business.”