Earth, Wind and SC Johnson

In the pursuit of supporting the company as well as the planet, SC Johnson announced the launch of its first owned and operated windmill at its biggest European manufacturing plant in Mijdrecht, The Netherlands. The investment, totaling $4.7 million, continues the company's pursuit of clean energy projects meant to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).

The wind turbine at the Europlant stands more than 250 feet tall and will generate about two-thirds of the electricity needed to power the plant. In addition, it will prevent nearly 4,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year. According to the press release, this is equivalent to planting 110,000 seedlings or saving 30 acres of forest.

The Europlant manufactures such items as air fresheners, oven cleaners, stain removers and dust cloths, and supplies 30 countries across Europe. This move toward wind energy continues a positive trend for SC Johnson, which has reduced GHG emissions in its top factories by 42 percent since 2000.

Assuming the wind turbine meets the company's expectations, it might even lead to similar investments down the road. Let's hope so, for both SC Johnson and the planet.