Granger, Lansing, Mich., has been recognized as a finalist by the Environmental Management Association (EMA) for the 2009 Environmental Achievement Award. F
In a news release, Granger says it is being considered for its comprehensive management of waste resources for recycling, composting and landfill gas conversion to energy.
Granger describes itself as a third-generation, family-owned and operated business. Starting as a small waste hauling and landfill disposal operation more than 50 years ago, the company now operates two sanitary landfills, a recycling center and a composting facility in the Lansing area.
In 1985, Granger became a pioneer in renewable energy by developing what it says is the first landfill gas recovery facility in Michigan, a project that provided fuel for a nearby industrial plant. Five years after that, Granger began supplying electricity generated from landfill-derived methane gas to a utility company. Since then, Granger has expanded its commitment to renewable energy, developing several other methane recovery projects with various partners in Michigan and other states.
Granger’s eight electric plants in the Great Lakes region generate a total of 31.2 megawatts of power, which is sold to local utilities to provide a renewable source of energy. In addition, four direct-use operations in the region provide 14,100 standard cubic feet per minute of renewable energy to several industrial end users, according to the company.
Granger employs 200 people in six states. More information on the company can be found on its Web site at www.grangernet.com.
EMA, based in the Greater Detroit area, says the criteria for winning its Environmental Achievement Award includes demonstrating a commitment to the environment that results in improved quality of life and uses of resources from the environmental industry to provide innovative solutions to potential environmental challenges.