Commits to reducing wastes, emissions, water and energy use

Contact:  Aaron Keatley 800-926-8111

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 18, 2006) – Webasto Roof Systems Inc., a leading manufacturer of automotive sunroofs, convertible tops and complete roof systems, has been accepted as a Master member of KY EXCEL, the environmental leadership program of the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (DEP).

Master membership is the highest level of the program.  To attain it, Webasto had to demonstrate comprehensive environmental management planning, submit to a third-party assessment of the plant’s compliance and commit to and report on at least four voluntary projects that benefit Kentucky’s environment.

The Lexington facility, which also has been a member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Environmental Performance Track program since 2003, continued its commitment to positive environmental performance by, among other projects, reducing hazardous solvent wastes and air pollutants and emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC). The company also continues to be committed to using less water and energy.

To reduce VOC emissions, the plant will substitute hazardous production chemicals with less toxic and volatile materials.  It will recycle office and production papers and scrap plastic, thereby reducing solid waste, and drastically reduce propane usage by converting to electric forklifts and other electric devices for materials.

“We are proud of the efforts all Webasto colleagues put forth on a day-to-day basis to sustain our positive environmental performance,” said Hal Grant, the health, safety, and environment manager for Webasto’s Kentucky operations.

Webasto services more than 40 percent of the global market for automotive roof components. The company completed its first building in Lexington in 1998 and expanded into a second building in 2003.

The facility’s 485 full-time employees make products for automakers Toyota, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Hyundai, Mercedes and Nissan, among others.

“Not only is Webasto Roof Systems one of Kentucky’s environmental leaders, it has been recognized nationally for environmental performance and commitment,” said Aaron Keatley, director of the DEP Division of Compliance Assistance, which is responsible for the administration of KY EXCEL.  “This level of excellence provides a great target for all of Kentucky’s facilities.  We are proud to welcome Webasto into KY EXCEL as a master member.”

KY EXCEL was launched in 2006 by DEP to encourage and recognize voluntary efforts that improve Kentucky’s environment.  Any individual, business or organization that is interested in learning more about KY EXCEL can obtain additional information online at www.kyexcel.ky.gov or by calling the Kentucky Division of Compliance Assistance at 800-926-8111.