Entries are requested for the 2007 Cement Industry Energy and Environment Awards, co-sponsored by Cement Americas, the Portland Cement Association, and the Cement Association of Canada. The deadline for the contest is March 1, 2008 (no extensions granted).

The goals of the contest are to recognize innovative practices, programs, and projects throughout the North American cement industry; communicate these ideas to others in the industry; and raise the profile and importance of environmental programs in all industries.

To be eligible for the 2007 contest, environmental programs and projects must have been completed between January and December 2007. More than one project may be submitted by the same firm, and multiple entries are encouraged. All North American facilities are eligible.

There are six categories in which awards for cement plants will be presented:

Environmental Performance; Land Stewardship; Outreach; Innovation; Energy Efficiency; and Overall Environmental Award (given to one plant that submits a strong response in multiple categories). Applicants are encouraged to submit entries in as many of the award areas as possible since this will enhance a plant's qualifications for winning the overall award. Entries will be judged by staff of the Portland Cement Association, the Cement Association of Canada, editorial staff of Cement Americas, and non-cement industry environmental experts.

For additional information on the awards or to acquire or turn in entry forms, go to www.cement.org, or contact:

Donna Wortman, Regulatory Affairs, PCA, 5420 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077-1083; phone: 847-972-9182; fax: 847-972-9183; e-mail: dwortman@cement.org