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EPA Recognizes Continental Airlines for Environmental Stewardship

Release Date: 04/01/2008
Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or r6press@epa.gov

(Dallas, Texas – April 1, 2007) Today the Design for the Environment (DfE) Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Continental Airlines for its corporate stewardship in implementing a non-chromium surface pretreatment for its aircraft. The product, PreKote, is produced by Pantheon Chemical, a recognized partner in EPA’s DfE program, and uses chemistry that is safer for the environment and human health.

Continental Airlines is the first commercial airline to test the technology using hexavalent chromium-free PreKote, which eliminates toxins used in the pretreatment of aircraft before repainting. In addition, the process used on Continental aircraft eliminated hazardous chemicals, improved worker health and safety conditions and reduced waste water.

“We applaud Continental Airlines for its leadership in health and environmental stewardship,” said EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene. “This is an important national effort to safeguard human health and protect the environment.”

EPA’s Design for the Environment Program works in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders to reduce risk to people and the environment by preventing pollution. DfE focuses on industries that combine the potential for chemical risk reduction and improvements in energy efficiency with a strong motivation to make lasting, positive changes. EPA’s DfE program has reached more than 200,000 business facilities and approximately two million workers.

“Continental is pleased to be acknowledged by the EPA for our part in using a more environmentally friendly product,” said Mark Moran, Continental’s Executive VP Operations. “Continental is always looking for ‘green’ alternatives, which support not only our Commitment to the Environment, but also to ensure our employees have a great place to work.”

To learn more about DfE visit https://www.epa.gov/dfe

More about activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/region6

EPA audio file is available at https://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/audio.htm#audio040108_continental