WEG Announces Environment Plan

Woodbine Entertainment Group has long been acknowledged as a leader in its horse racing operations, but it has also demonstrated leadership in its corporate social responsibilities, including its commitment

to environmental sustainability.

Earlier today, Woodbine Entertainment Group launched its new environmental management program called “On Track to Zero Waste to Landfill.” The Honourable John Wilkinson, Ontario’s Minister of Environment joined WEG staff for this announcement.

“On Track To Zero Waste to Landfill” has WEG expanding its organics and source separation programs at Woodbine, Mohawk and Greenwood to include all of the employee and customer facing areas of its grandstand operations as well as the barn areas at Woodbine and Mohawk, Employees and customers will be educated on source separation through the use of colour coded bins and improved signage..

WEG’s new waste management program will build on the company’s already impressive 93% diversion rate. This rate exceeds the 90% diversion rate benchmark required by Zero Waste International Alliance to be acknowledged as a zero waste business.

“WEG has a strong track record in environmental sustainability but we recognize that there is even more that we can do to reduce waste,” stated Nick Eaves, President and CEO. “We are confident that with the participation of our employees, customers and horse people we can achieve higher levels of waste reduction and diversion across all of our operations.”

WEG’s employees have been instrumental in the company’s environmental achievements. Letters of commendation were presented to WEG’s 2010 Environmental Stewardship Award winners by Minister Wilkinson, for bringing innovative “green thinking” to their workplace

Also as part of the “On Track” program, WEG, a multiple award-winning member of the Recycling Council of Ontario (RCO) and a Founding Business and Ambassador for the Greater Toronto Airport Authority’s Partners in Project Green’s Eco Business Zone, will strive to achieve certification as part of the Recycling Council of Ontario’s new 3RCertified Waste Diversion Certification Program.

WEG is proud of its environmental record, which has included a significant financial investment in environmental sustainability concepts from investigating alternative energy sources to implementing waste/energy/water management programs to establishing green purchasing & procurement policies

“WEG recognizes that long-term economic sustainability is dependent on sound business principles and policies which also incorporate the need for environmental and social responsibility,” said Eaves. “On Track” is another step toward that goal. We’re proud that Minister Wilkinson was here to help us launch this important green program and to honour our employees who have contributed to our environmental achievements.”

(WEG)