Toronto, Ontario – General Motors of Canada is the first automaker and the largest company so far to be recognized by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment as a member of the Ontario’s Environmental Leaders (OEL) Program. All of GM of Canada’s operations were included.

The OEL program recognizes and rewards leading companies and organizations that commit to reducing their environmental impact beyond what is required by regulation. Each application is scrutinized by an external stakeholder panel; entry criteria include a robust environmental management system and solid compliance record.

GM of Canada is the only auto manufacturer to consistently report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its operations, and has been recognized by the Voluntary Challenge/ISO GHG Registry as a Gold Level reporter for nine consecutive years. GM’s total facility GHG emissions are 50 per cent lower than 1990 levels, despite producing 12 per cent more vehicles.

“General Motors is honoured to be the first automaker admitted to the prestigious OEL program,” said David Paterson, vice president corporate and environmental activities for GM of Canada. “We have worked consistently over a long period of time to take significant action to reduce the environmental impact of our facilities and offer customers meaningful and affordable environmental vehicle choices.”