New Augusta, Mississippi - For the second consecutive year, the Leaf River Cellulose Mill (LRC) in New Augusta has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR certification.

The accreditation shows that LRC performed in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meets the strict standards set by the EPA. The mill improved its energy performance by strategically managing energy across the entire organization and making cost-saving improvements.

“The Leaf River Cellulose team understands the importance of performing work that creates the most value for our customers while simultaneously being as energy efficient as possible,” said Joel Engle, Leaf River’s general manager. “There is a lot of pride in receiving this award for the second consecutive year. This demonstrates our team’s commitment to environmental stewardship and our journey to be the customer of choice.”

LRC recently handed out Mugshot burgers to employees to celebrate their accomplishments. They also received a tumbler with the LRC and ENERGY STAR logos.

The continued cooperation between the EPA and Georgia-Pacific demonstrates the company’s commitment to being good stewards, starting with how we govern ourselves, comply with laws and regulations, and work collaboratively with regulators. Consuming fewer resources, minimizing waste, and constantly innovating to improve our manufacturing processes and performance are essential to the way we do business and will further reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“Manufacturing plants that reduce energy consumption as part of the transition to a zero-emissions future save money and create the resiliency needed for the long-term health of their operations, our economy, and our planet,” said Michael S. Regan, EPA administrator.

LRC produces pulp products sold in North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa/Middle East.