Intel is committed to working with the communities surrounding the Rio Rancho facility and throughout New Mexico. The sharing of information is critical as we strive to open our doors and exchange information with our neighbors.
In August 2004, a new two-way exchange between the community and Intel began with the formation of the Community Environmental Working Group (CEWG) in New Mexico. The group includes environmental activists, Intel representatives, local Intel critics and other community members who are committed to continuous voluntary environmental improvements at Intel's Rio Rancho site.
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Over the past four years, this interaction has produced substantial reductions in air emissions at the site. Improvements resulted from capital investments in new pollution control equipment and upgrades of existing equipment, as well as more efficient methods for maintenance that significantly reduced the number of hours that pollution controls must be turned off each year. Other improvements included a 70%-80% reduction in chemical biocide use in the cooling towers, installation of an additional regenerative thermal oxidizer (RTO) abatement system, and the development of a draft "Citizen Protocol." This protocol outlines a new method for conducting air emissions testing, whereby contractor selection, data analysis methodology, and reporting are determined by the CEWG, not by Intel.
Most recently, two new, improved pollution abatement systems were purchased by Intel, one for regular operation and one for backup during downtime. The $2 million redundant unit was voluntarily added by Intel at the request of the CEWG and neighbors in the community. We continue to strive for continuous environmental improvements at Intel and improved dialogue with the community.
Intel has been active in supporting environmental improvements on the site and also in the surrounding communities during the past year.
This past year we teamed up with the City of Albuquerque and KOAT TV to offer local businesses and residents free electronic equipment recycling at a two-day event, collecting 572,619 pounds of e-waste.
For the past several years, Intel has supported the Water Conservation and Xeriscape Conference held in Albuquerque. Participating in the annual conference gives Intel the opportunity to promote and share best practices on water conservation with national specialists and local residents.
"Corporate responsibility is an essential ingredient in how we do business. It has been critical to our success in the past and will continue to be so in the future. It's fundamentally about doing the right things the right way - from setting high ethical expectations for our employees and suppliers, to providing a progressive and inclusive workplace, to delivering products that can change the world.
We have long focused on reducing our emissions, recycling waste, conserving water, and designing products with the environment in mind. Intel chips are made of silicon, the principal ingredient in beach sand. I've outlined a long-term vision for Intel that I've termed "Sand to Sand," a decision-making framework that embodies the concept of sustainability and gives us ongoing motivation to make the right choices for the environment."
—Paul S. Otellini, President and Chief Executive Officer
Intel 2007 Corporate Responsibility Report
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