The company's flagship facility in Hempstead, Long Island has been open since 1989, but is still producing new records. The plant recoded its best year ever for non-ferrous metals recovery, and had its highest monthly waste throughput by processing 86,750 tons in December. Hempstead-based employees Paul Colon and Ken Hinsch were recognized by OSHA for their roles in World Trade Center recovery efforts following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
SEMASS
American Ref-Fuel has used a multi-faceted approach to meet Massachusetts' stringent mercury-control requirements at our SEMASS plant. The strategy combines innovative emissions technology with community education to segregate mercury-bearing waste. SEMASS personnel were also creative in community outreach, converting their annual company golf outing to a successful charity fundraiser.
ESSEX
The Essex County Plant in Newark, N. J., continues to serve as an example of the strategic importance of American Ref-fuel's facilities. In addition to serving its host municipality, the plant has proven valuable to as New York City explores multiple options for disposing of the waste from America's largest city after the closure of the Fresh Kills landfill on Staten Island.
NIAGARA
Creative efforts on the part of plant and marketing teams optimized our permit to process special waste in Niagara Falls, N. Y., resulting in more than 53,000 of these premium tons being handled in 2002. Another boost to the plant's economics is anticipated in 2003 with the new steam connection to Norampac Industries. Also, Niagara-based employee Roy Kemsley was recognized by OSHA for his role in the World Trade Center Recovery efforts.
SECONN
American Ref-Fuel personnel completed installation of a carbon injection system in Southeastern Conn., to further protect the environment. In addition, the plant had a notable 10th-anniversary yea, posting plant records for waste combusted and power sold. It's 96.2-percent onstream availability was also the best among American Ref-Fuel's facilites.
DELAWARE VALLEY
American Ref-fuel continues to upgrade the Delaware Valley, Pa., facility acquired in 1997. Plant performance and community relations have trended positively in our first five years of operations. There is also growing stability in the workforce, with significantly reduced employee turnover in 2003.
