SPSA : Press Room

(CHESAPEAKE, VA, November 2, 2006) – The Southeastern Public Service Authority’s waste-to-energy system has won the 2006 Environmental Excellence Award for outstanding achievement for local government’s facility.
            The award will be presented November 13 by the Chesapeake Bay Program’s “Businesses for the Bay” project, according to coordinator Mary Lynn Wilhere.
            SPSA environmental compliance manager Michael Barnett says SPSA’s steps to improve the environment around the Portsmouth facility include returning 1.5 acres to nature by planting 97 indigenous trees; upgrading emissions controls; stocking Paradise Creek the branch of the Elizabeth River adjacent to the plant, with oysters; planting sea grass; and installing a garden in front of the waste-to-energy operation.
            “As an organization that calls itself an environmental organization, we are very proud to receive this recognition from the Chesapeake Bay Program,” said Richard Cheliras, Director of Environmental and Safety Management. “It is an affirmation that we are pursuing our mission with professionalism and a high degree of competence. It is also a tribute to the staff, which has worked tirelessly to bring this about.”

SPSA has been providing efficient and environmentally sound waste disposal services to the region and its residents since 1985. SPSA’s solid waste management system includes waste-to-energy, yard waste composting, drop-off and curbside recycling as well as other recycling programs, household hazardous waste collection, landfilling, landfill gas-to-energy and education programs. This integrated waste management system enables SPSA to put 57% of the waste it receives to a beneficial use, thus allowing the region to reduce its dependence on landfills.