The Tarheel, NC. pork plant operated by Smithfield Foods has received recognition as a Rising Environmental Steward. The distinction was awarded by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.
It is heartening to read of a participant in the intensive livestock industry that is commended for environmental benefits. This stands in contrast to the criticism that Smithfield Foods has experienced relating to nuisance from hog waste lagoons.
The Tarheel plant was commended for a commitment to exceed environmental regulations over a two-decade period and has been a consistent recipient of awards under the environmental stewardship initiative. Specific actions taken by Smithfield Foods include installation of a wastewater treatment system that produces renewable gas, powering 2,000 local homes. The reclaimed water system recirculates one million gallons of water per day and is used for wash-down and other approved ‘grey-water applications.
Environmental stewardship extends beyond the Tarheel plant with facilities in Clinton and Wilson, NC., earning NCDEQ designation as Rising Environmental Stewards complying with standards that exceed legal requirements.