The Honda Research and Development (R&D) Americas, Inc., facility in Raymond, Ohio was awarded the E3 Gold Award in August 2017. At the facility, approximately 1,300 employees develop and test Honda and Acura automobiles, Honda power sports and Honda power equipment products. They lead in advancing safety and environmental technologies with other global R&D centers. They work to develop environmentally friendly products, striving to minimize the impact of daily operations on the environment. Honda R&D Americas has a zero-waste-to-landfill policy, which is part of a broader goal to reduce the environmental impact of all Honda's operations.

The Honda R&D Americas Raymond facility is the first Ohio facility designated as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2006. Some of the green building features used at the Honda R&D Americas Raymond facility include:

• Using an ice chilling system, which is more energy efficient, costing less than conventional air conditioning systems.
• Reducing emissions by 75 percent using a biodiesel emergency generator.
• Optimizing lighting using occupancy sensors and installing energy efficient light bulbs and ballasts.
• Using a smaller footprint catalytic technology thermal oxidizer, achieving faster warm-up time and lower operating temperature.
• Installing a waste oil furnace in the car wash.

The following environmental factors are considered in each product design/development:

• Reducing the environmental footprint, from design and selection of materials, to the end of life.
• Considering the dismantling complexity, remanufacture of components and minimizing substances of concern.
• Encouraging suppliers to reduce packaging waste and adopt more energy-efficient processes.
• Integrating environmental management accounting on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis. Environmental is a core business element along with Quality, Delivery and Cost.
• Implementing zero-waste-to-landfill, starting with their associates/work force.
• Encouraging associates to participate in philanthropic events and seeking new volunteer opportunities in communities.

“As the first R&D center of a major auto maker to receive a gold level E3 award, Honda R&D Americas sets an example for others to follow to improve operational and disposal efficiency while implementing environmentally beneficial programs,” Director Butler said.

The E3 program provides four recognition levels: Achievement, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Any organization in Ohio may apply for membership. Applications are accepted annually and include both written and on-site evaluations. To be eligible, applicants must be in compliance with environmental laws and regulations. If you’re interested in applying for an E3 award, visit epa.ohio.gov/ocapp/ohioe3.aspx or call (800) 329-7518. We would be glad to help guide you through the process and get your organization the recognition it deserves.