Environmental Principles
Over the years, Minnesota Energy Resources has taken an aggressive stance with
regard to the use of energy and its impact on the environment.
We are committed to looking for environmentally friendly ways to serve
the growing demand for energy. And, when it comes to regulatory
compliance, Minnesota Energy Resources exceeds stringent air emission and greenhouse
gas regulations set by state and federal agencies.
- Protect the Environment - Minnesota Energy Resources
will continue our goal of being a leader in environmental
stewardship. To the greatest extent practicable, we will limit
our impact on the environment. We will continue to operate
our facilities to meet or surpass environmental standards.
- Use Natural Resources Responsibly - Minnesota Energy Resources
will be responsible when using renewable natural resources,
such as water, soils and forests. We will conserve nonrenewable
natural resources through efficient use and careful planning.
We will protect wildlife habitat, open spaces, wilderness,
and work to preserve a diversity of life.
- Reduce & Dispose of Waste - Minnesota Energy Resources
will minimize the creation of waste, especially hazardous
waste, and whenever practicable, we will recycle. We will
dispose of all wastes through safe and responsible methods.
- Use Energy Wisely - As an energy supplier, Minnesota Energy Resources
will make every effort to provide environmentally
safe energy sources to meet our customers' needs. We will
invest in improved energy efficiency and conservation in our
operations and will actively encourage our customers to do
the same.
- Reduce Risk - We will strive to reduce the environmental,
health and safety risks to Minnesota Energy Resources employees
and the communities in which we operate by employing safe
technologies and operating procedures and by being prepared
for emergencies.
- Market Safe Products & Services - Minnesota Energy Resources
will supply our energy products in a manner
that minimizes adverse environmental impacts. We will continue
to stress safety concerns when using our products and continue
to assist our customers in using these products safely.
- Compensate for Damage - Minnesota Energy Resources
will take reasonable precautions to avoid harm to the environment.
In the event of an accident, we will take responsibility for
the harm caused and make a reasonable effort to mitigate damage
or restore the environment.
- Disclose Environmental Information - We will inform
Minnesota Energy Resources employees and the public of incidents
relating to our operations that may cause environmental harm
or pose health or safety hazards.
- Employ Environmental Directors or Managers - Minnesota Energy Resources
will commit management resources to implement
these principles. This includes the continuation of an office
of environmental affairs or an equivalent executive position,
reporting directly to senior corporate management, to monitor
and report on our efforts.
- Annual Evaluation - Minnesota Energy Resources will
conduct self-evaluation of our progress in accomplishing these
principles and our efforts to comply with all applicable environmental
laws and regulations.