DNR Seeking Public Comment On Kimberly-Clark Marinette Green Tier Application For Tier 2 Status

MADISON, Wis. –  The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public comment on the proposed application for Kimberly-Clark Marinette (KC Marinette) to move to Tier 2 of the Green Tier program. Kimberly-Clark Marinette has been a Tier 1 participant since 2021.

The DNR’s Green Tier program recognizes organizations committed to going above and beyond compliance to improve their environmental performance and impact. Companies in Tier 2 demonstrate a history of superior environmental performance, have an effective environmental management system and are committed to bringing about change in their industry, region or within their supply chain.

The transition to Tier 2 would enable the company to negotiate a customized environmental contract with the DNR, complete the requirements for their Green Tier registration operation permit and request additional flexibilities.

KC Marinette employs 230 highly skilled workers in the production of Scott® Shop Towels, Scott® Rags-in-a-Box, Wypall® wiping products for the workplace and Viva® paper towels for household and consumer use.

In 2020, Kimberly-Clark Corporation announced its 2030 ambition and sustainability goals to address the social and environmental challenges of the next decade. Commitments include improving the lives and well-being of 1 billion people in underserved communities globally by 2030 with the smallest environmental footprint. KC Marinette achieved landfill-free status in 2022.

Participants in Tier 2 of Green Tier are required to operate under a functioning environmental management system, which helps companies manage their environmental impacts. KC Marinette maintains an environmental management system that meets Green Tier requirements.

If accepted into Tier 2, KC Marinette will complete the requirements for a registration operation permit. In addition to the permit, KC Marinette is requesting flexibility for the following items:

• Reduce whole effluent toxicity testing frequency to once per permit renewal period.
• Reduce low-level mercury testing to once per year on a rotating quarterly basis.

More information about Green Tier and Kimberly Clark Corporation’s Marinette facility’s participation is available on this DNR webpage.

The DNR will accept comments, requests to participate in negotiations or requests for a public informational meeting through April 27, 2024. Comments and requests should be directed to:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
C/O Jenni Birkholz
101 S. Webster St. EA/7
Madison, WI 53703
JenniferA.Birkholz@wisconsin.gov or 608-514-2182