EPA launches green production drive

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) believes businesses can reduce costs and protect the environment by introducing cleaner, greener practices.

Yesterday, the EPA in conjunction with IBEC launched the Cleaner Greener Production Programme (CGPP).

The CGPP aims to assist companies to develop innovative solutions to environmental problems. EPA director general Mary Kelly said the CGPP will also provide grant aid to companies who look beyond just managing environmental impacts and actually seek to prevent them occurring.

"Irish businesses can simultaneously reduce their costs and protect the environment by introducing cleaner, greener practices," said Ms Kelly, who called on industry to respond with proposals to participate in the CGPP.

IBEC's director general Turlough O'Sullivan said Irish business has identified the environment as a strategic business issue.

"IBEC welcomes this initiative. The Cleaner Greener Production Programme is an excellent opportunity for companies to demonstrate best practice," he added.

Applications from companies for CGPP will be accepted until August 6, 2004 and application forms are available online at www.epa.ie/r-d/