Page 27 - Nov-Dec2017 Vol35 No5

DENSO MANUFACTURING with natural plant filtering that created a Equipment as part of their environmental
healthy sanctuary for wildlife and demon- technology commitment. This system
DENSO Manufacturing of Athens has strates water sustainability. destroys Volatile Organic Compounds
taken several steps in recent years toward more efficiently, and reduces CO2
more sustainable operations. DENSO Shawn Lindsey, former Public Works footprint by more than 400 tons per year.
partnered with the City of Athens Parks Director for the City of Athens, was an
and Recreation and the McMinn County early champion of the idea and helped fa- Conclusion
Economic Development Authority to de- cilitate DENSO’s partnership with the City
velop an 11.5 acre EcoPark that creates a of Athens Parks and Recreation Depart- Even though these three projects did
safe place for employees and the commu- ment and the McMinn County Economic not win a Governor’s Environmental
nity to enjoy the outdoors. The EcoPark Development Authority to create an oasis Stewardship Award, they certainly
was developed on land owned and set in which employees and the community deserve recognition for their successes
aside by the McMinn County Economic can walk, learn, and immerse themselves in sound environmental practices. Their
Development Authority and was com- in nature. dedication and effort toward bettering the
pleted in three phases. environment in Tennessee is extremely
DENSO also installed Volatile Organic impressive.
Phase one included an outdoor, Japa- Compound Air Emission Removal
nese-style pavilion and picnic area, which
serves as a meeting area for employees
and an outdoor classroom for students.
This phase also established a half mile
walking trail, and Japanese fruit orchard.
This walking trail and fruit orchard help
celebrate the company’s Japanese culture,
while also teaching students about food
sustainability.

Phase two focused on renewable energy
through the use of a windmill and solar
panels. After completion, DENSO started
to sell the green electricity to fund future
activities and upkeep as well as to make
donations to environmental activities.

Phase three included a natural pond

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