Five Montana businesses have been recognized with EcoStar awards by the Montana Pollution Prevention Program at Montana State University. The awards, now in their 24th year, are funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and honor companies that have made efforts to reduce waste, emissions, and resource use.
The announcement comes ahead of National Pollution Prevention Week, which begins on September 15. The five awardees represent 13 communities across the state and include Cool Earth Creamery in Missoula for low-impact dairy practices; Mackenzie River Pizza Co., with locations in several cities, for sustainable operations and reduced single-use waste; Superior Meats in Superior for energy-efficient equipment and waste reduction; The Garden Barn in Bozeman for reducing packaging and conserving water; and Xanterra Parks and Resorts in Gardiner for energy-saving improvements.
“Each EcoStar business demonstrates that pollution prevention isn’t a regulatory burden — it’s a strategic advantage,” said Jenny Grossenbacher, director of the Montana Pollution Prevention Program. “As these five businesses lead by example, they ignite a ripple effect across Montana’s business community by inspiring others to act, accelerating innovation and showing that environmental leadership and economic success go hand in hand.”
Collectively, this year’s recipients have saved about 7 million gallons of water, reduced hazardous waste by 18,090 pounds, avoided using 9,700 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, and saved over 627,000 kilowatt-hours of energy. Mackenzie River Pizza Co., which is a repeat recipient of the award, participates in Helena’s pilot composting program and has reduced plastic use at all its locations. In total, these pollution prevention measures have resulted in savings of $335,517.
Awarded businesses each receive a $500 grant to support further pollution prevention efforts as well as assistance from the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center to identify additional areas for improvement. Applications for next year’s awards are due August 15.
“When businesses act to prevent pollution by reducing energy and water use, cutting waste or lowering greenhouse gas emissions, they also protect their profits, enhance their brand and lead communities toward sustainability,” Grossenbacher said.
