The significant environmental accomplishments outlined in this book were made over several decades of determination, conviction and significant financial investment. To further improve, we are working on comprehensive environmental management systems that stress preventive instead of reactive measures. Our evolving systems will help us achieve continuous improvement in performance through improved planning, implementation, measurement, evaluation, and review of environmental projects. Currently, our Sparrows Point Division is establishing a total quality management system, and other Bethlehem Steel facilities will establish similar systems in the future. All environmental management systems will be consistent with emerging international standards for environmental management practices, such as ISO 14000.

Although many components of our environmental programs are mandated by laws and regulations, many other efforts are voluntary, such as the community environmental stewardship activities at several business units, and cooperative efforts with customers and suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of steel production from a total life cycle standpoint. Recognition of exceptional effort, in the form of Environmental Achievement Awards, will continue to acknowledge effective teams of employees as well as motivate others to excel. These awards, as well as employee awareness training at each business unit, help promote environmental performance as a fundamental corporate value.

Endorsing the CERES Principles was an important first step in validating Bethlehem's commitment to environmental excellence. In safety, our new Employee Safety Process designed and created by a cross-functional employee team, will guide our efforts to make Bethlehem the industry leader. Our employees are up to the challenge, as demonstrated by the more than 30 percent improvement in corporate results over the last two years. Although more work needs to be done to reach our vision of safety and health excellence, we are committed to working every day to achieve that goal.

We have focused and will continue to focus on efforts that:

• Promote excellence in safety, health and environmental performance as a fundamental corporate value,
• Establish effective management systems to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement,
• Reduce future environmental risks and liabilities related to steel production, and
• Enhance Bethlehem's image as a good corporate citizen and business of choice in our communities.

We look forward to reporting additional achievements in next year's report.

Dr. Augustine E. Moffitt, Jr., Vice President, Safety, Health and Environment

Safety, Health and Environment Department
1170 Eighth Avenue, Martin Tower; 12th Floor, Bethlehem, PA 18016-7699
For further information about this report, send mail to [email protected]

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