Today Whirlpool Corporation
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By improving its freight operations, Whirlpool will contribute to the SmartWay goal of reducing carbon dioxide by 33 to 66 million metric tons and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide per year by 2012. Carbon dioxide is the most common greenhouse gas, and nitrogen oxide is an air pollutant that contributes to smog. By joining the SmartWay Transport Partnership, Whirlpool demonstrates its continued strong environmental leadership and corporate responsibility.
"Whirlpool is delighted to become a SmartWay partner and to demonstrate our commitment to distributing our products in an environmentally responsible manner", said Brian Hancock, vice president, Supply Chain, Whirlpool North America. "As the leading appliance producer in North America, we know that our actions can have a substantial impact on our environmental footprint."
Joining the SmartWay partnership also qualifies Whirlpool to use the SmartWay brand to advertise its environmental excellence. Whirlpool has committed to utilize SmartWay Transport Carrier Partners for a greater portion of its freight in the future. In addition, Whirlpool expects to assess other elements of its transportation practices and implement additional efficiency improvements such as increased Intermodal shipping, idle reduction policies, and warehouse improvements to include moving from propane to electric clamp trucks.
Launched in February 2004, the SmartWay Transport Partnership aims to achieve fuel savings of up to 150 million barrels of fuel per year. The Partnership brings together major freight shippers, trucking companies, railroads, logistics companies and trade/professional associations to pursue mutually beneficial efficiencies that result in emissions reductions and other environmental improvements, as well as cost savings to the companies. The Partnership currently has over 450 Partners.
For information about the SmartWay Transport Partnership visit www.epa.gov/smartway.
About Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of more than $19 billion, more than 80,000 employees, and more than 60 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/.
FCMN Contact: Monica.Teague@Whirlpool.com
SOURCE: Whirlpool Corporation
CONTACT: Monica Teague of Whirlpool Corporation, +1-269-923-7405, or