Wisconsin-based Rockline Industries, one of the world’s leading producers of coffee filters and consumer wet wipes, recently revealed that it has reached a major conservation milestone by reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of its plants in Booneville and Springdale by 36%. This reduction was the result of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that included participation in Southwestern Electric Power Company’s (SWEPCO) Renewable Energy Choice program, through which SWEPCO provides renewable energy to Rockline’s Arkansas plants from its three wind farms in north-central Oklahoma.
Rockline Industries made a long-term commitment in 2008 to adopt more sustainable business practices, and in 2020 renewed its commitment by introducing its most ambitious and aggressive sustainability goals yet, pledging to reduce carbon emissions by 50% within a decade and source 60% of its electricity from renewable sources.
“Over the last fifteen years, I have been continually inspired by the commitment of our associates to achieve and exceed our sustainability goals,” said Randy Rudolph, president of Rockline Industries. “Our progress in this area is due to their daily hard work to ensure that every area of our company is using best practices that help our environment and the world we all live in.”
Associates at the Booneville plant collaborated with SWEPCO’s Energy Efficiency Team to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption through meticulous analysis, audits and the implementation of best practices, resulting in a 7.4% reduction in energy usage, surpassing the plant’s 5% goal. Through SWEPCO’s Strategic Energy Management Program, more than 1,558 megawatt-hours were saved at both plants.
“We’re excited to help businesses discover ways they can benefit from our energy efficiency programs or be powered by AEP and SWEPCO’s Renewable Energy Choice programs,” explained Paul Pratt, director of customer services & marketing. “We’re proud our partnership and support helped Rockline achieve their sustainability goals.”
Rockline has adopted a range of energy conservation measures including the installation of timed sensors for restroom lights, the implementation of shut-off timers for conveyor belts and education for employees on energy conservation practices. The company’s sustainability approach is guided by three overarching long-term aspirations: achieving fossil fuel independence through a transition to clean, low-carbon energy sources; minimizing waste and its environmental impact; and developing ecologically intelligent and sustainable products.
READ ALSO: SANDERS NAMES THOMAS AS ARKANSAS DIRECTOR OF TOURISM