8.07.2008 - 09:32am ET

(CSRwire) BENNINGTON, NH. - August 7, 2008 - Monadnock Paper Mills today became one of the first small businesses to join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Leaders program. By participating in the Climate Leaders program, Monadnock has pledged to reduce its corporate-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The Climate Leaders program is an EPA industry-government partnership that works with companies to develop comprehensive climate change strategies. Partner companies commit to reducing their impact on the global environment by completing a corporate-wide inventory of their GHG emissions based on a third-party audited environmental management system, setting aggressive reduction goals, and annually reporting their progress to the EPA. Through program participation, companies create a credible record of their accomplishments and receive EPA recognition as corporate environmental leaders.

"The goals of the Climate Leaders program are very much in line with Monadnock's core beliefs," said Richard Verney, Monadnock Chairman and CEO. "Monadnock has a long history of using clean, renewable energy and of continuously improving our environmental footprint. Joining the Climate Leaders program is a natural extension of our commitment to the environment."

The family-owned paper company generates renewable energy through its on-site, low-impact hydroelectric facilities and has received numerous certificates of recognition for environmental initiatives advocating sustainability. Monadnock was the first paper mill to receive Forest Stewardship Council chain-of-custody certification (ensuring responsible use of forest resources SW-COC-1160) for its Astrolite PC 100(R)recycled printing paper. It has also earned ISO 14001:2004 Certification for its comprehensive Environmental Management System. Over the last decade Monadnock has reduced its water usage by half and currently manufactures all of its printing and packaging papers carbon neutral using 100% renewable electricity.

"Throughout its history, Monadnock has taken its role as a steward of the environment seriously," said Verney. "Joining the Climate Leaders program continues that commitment."

Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. manufactures premium Graphic Arts Printing, Packaging and high performance Technical/Specialty Papers. All Monadnock printing and packaging papers are made using 100% renewable electricity and are manufactured carbon neutral. All Monadnock papers are manufactured under the strict requirements of ISO 14001:2004 and ISO 9001:2000 Environmental and Quality Management Systems. Monadnock is an FSC certified paper mill (SW-COC-001160). The FSC label ensures responsible use of forest resources.

For more information please contact: