CLEVELAND … Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation today announced a wide range of initiatives that Eaton employees worldwide are implementing locally to improve the environment and make a positive impact on their communities. In on-going activities related to World Environment Day on June 5, Eaton employees have started recycling programs, inspired new ways of thinking about energy conservation, and even challenged workers to try commute to work without cars.

“Sustainability is at the core of Eaton’s business and values. Participating in efforts to improve and sustain local environments is key to advancing the company’s green initiatives,” said Monica Alston, corporate director – Environment, Health and Safety. “We thank all the employees who volunteer their time and talents throughout the year to help create lasting impact in their local environments.”

Eaton employees are engaged in projects that conserve energy, reduce waste, and create environmental awareness. Following are just a few examples:

• In Guarulhos, Brazil, Eaton’s Hydraulics Operations plant is utilizing the company’s intranet to discuss green initiatives. The facility is promoting an internal competition to get employees thinking about how it can reduce water and energy consumption. The plant will share employee ideas on Eaton’s intranet.
• In another effort to reduce consumption, the Valvetrain Test Lab in Marshall, Mich. is updating its motor-driven valvetrain test fixtures with new equipment that reduces the electrical power requirements by 75 percent. They will also reduce the department’s electricity bill substantially.
• Many sites involved local communities in their World Environment Day commitment. In an effort to broaden knowledge of how solar panels and electrical systems are configured, the Electrical Sector Power System Experience Center in Warrendale, Pa. is teaming with Penn State University to provide workforce training with a portable solar power training system that will cover a five-state area. They are also inviting fifth graders from a local school to visit the facility and learn more about solar systems first-hand.
• Some groups found simple ways to make changes to their facilities. Employees in Penang, Malaysia, for example, are reassessing their office equipment. They have been offering old computers to employees and recycling out-of-date technology.
• Eaton’s Searcy Hydraulics facility in Arkansas saw a more literal way to go “green.” The team worked with the Arkansas Department of Forestry of White County to get free trees for the entire facility. Eaton’s Greenwood Facility in South Carolina also took a “green” approach. The team created an on-site garden that will be maintained by employees. All produce harvested will be donated to local community groups.
• Public transportation, walking and bike rides were the only acceptable forms of transportation on May 30 at the Electrical Sector facility in Le Lieu, Switzerland. In addition to several other green actions, employees were encouraged to find an alternative way to get to work on the “Day Without Cars.”

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2010 sales of $13.7 billion. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 70,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries.