Cascades, Kingsey Falls, Que., Canada, this week took home the Projet vert ICI+ award at the sixth edition of the EnviroLys gala organized by the Conseil des entreprises en technologies environnementales du Québec (CETEQ). The company also was named the most responsible organization by Quebecers for a fifth consecutive year, according to the Baromètre de la consommation responsable. 

The EnviroLys awards recognize companies in the environment sector. The Projet vert ICI+ category rewards an institution, commerce, or industry (ICI) whose activity is not directly linked to the environment but helps protect it through the implementation of an innovative project with respect to sustainable development in line with its mission. Cascades won for its Alain-Lemaire Solar Park, a solar field covering a total surface of 1,490 sq. meters. Created in cooperation with Rackam, a young Sherbrooke-based company, this project enables the Cascades industrial complex in Kingsey Falls to reduce its natural gas consumption in the production of steam thanks to the solar energy collected by a powerful concentrated solar power system. 

Cascades also did well in the sixth edition of the Baromètre de la consommation responsable, a study made public by the Observatoire de la consommation responsable (OCR) of UQAM's École des sciences de la gestion. This report describes major trends in terms of consumption and purchasing motivations and barriers. Since 2011, the study has been identifying organizations and brands Quebecers see as being responsible. Cascades topped the list once again this year. 

"I am proud that Cascades is once again seen as a leader. With the implementation of the Alain-Lemaire Solar Park, Cascades showed the important role sustainable development plays in decision-making," said Mario Plourde, president and CEO of Cascades. "This initiative, built on the values the Lemaire brothers passed on to the organization over the past 50 years, also supports the entrepreneurial succession and the development of green technologies. Such projects no doubt enhance Quebecers' positive perception of our company. I am very happy to see Cascades' engagement be recognized this way."

Founded in 1964, Cascades produces, converts and markets packaging and tissue products that are composed mainly of recycled fibers. The company has close to 11,000 employees who work in more than 90 production units in North America and Europe.