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Fresno Energy and Clean Air Business Expo Showcases Businesses Improving Valley’s Environment
Event Features Car Crushing Demonstration of Gross Polluting Vehicles
(Fresno, Calif.-June 9, 2006) The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Company, and Valley CAN (Clean Air Now) on Thursday hosted the 2006 Fresno Energy and Clean Air Business Exposition, showcasing businesses and business leaders that are working to improve Valley air quality and energy efficiency. Nearly 70 exhibitors demonstrated how a business’s bottom line and its efforts to improve air quality and energy efficiency can be positively connected and contribute to a Clean Air Economy.
"Improved air quality and increased energy efficiency means a better business environment and a better life for everyone in the Valley," said Paul Betancourt, President of Valley CAN, a non-profit organization that promotes voluntary clean air values in the San Joaquin Valley. "The exhibits here today show that the business community is playing a very active role in improving our environment."
A local car crusher began the Expo by crushing gross polluting Valley vehicles voluntarily turned over to the California Bureau of Automotive Repairs (BAR) Consumer Assistance Program (CAP). Charlene Zettel, Director of the California Department of Consumer Affairs, explained the significance of the demonstration to those on hand.
"On behalf of the Schwarzenegger Administration, I'd like to say we're pleased to team up with Valley CAN to work for cleaner air, so that all San Joaquin Valley residents can 'Breathe Easier,' " said Zettel. "We're crushing cars to celebrate an expanded state clean-air program that helps Valley residents and our environment. The program helps owners of high-polluting vehicles fix them, or send them to the crusher, so they can be taken off our roads for good."
In addition to car crushing, Expo attendees were able to test-drive hybrid vehicles, listen to air quality and energy efficiency presentations, and participate in the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce Networking Mixer. Throughout the day, the Expo provided an opportunity for businesses to learn more about innovative, cost-effective approaches to cleaning the air and improving energy efficiency.
"These Expos have been held in Bakersfield and Fresno, and we look forward to partnering with Chambers throughout the Valley to carry the message that business prosperity and environmental consciousness go hand-in-hand," added Betancourt. "As business leaders, we understand the leadership role we must play to be a part of the solution."
For more information about Valley CAN or Tune In & Tune Up visit www.valley-can.org.
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