STAFF REPORT

Poland Spring Water Co. has been recognized as an "environmental leader" by Gov. John Baldacci.

Poland Spring achieved a 46 percent fuel reduction, surpassing the 37 percent goal it set going into 2008. The company also surpassed its commitment to recycle 92 percent of its waste stream, now at 96 percent.

Poland Spring operates bottling plants in Poland Spring, Hollis and Kingfield in Maine. The new Kingfield facility represents a $60 million investment and has created more than 40 new jobs. Satellite spring sources are in Fryeburg, Poland, Dallas Plantation, Pierce Pond Township and St. Albans.

According to a press release, Poland Spring has improved its sustainability in packaging, production, transportation and recycling. The company employs 800 Maine people; has invested more than $439 million in capital in the state since 1992; provides about $40 million to the economy in annual payroll; spends more than $65 million a year directly with Maine vendors; and has invested more than $2.5 million in community-giving, the company said.