GUILFORD – Guilford of Maine is one of four Maine companies pioneering a new environmental excellence program for the Department of Environmental Protection known as “Step-Up.”

Joining Guilford in launching “Step-Up” are Alan Auto of Portland, Bath Iron Works of Bath and Brunswick, and Fairchild Semiconductor of South Portland. Key officials from all four firms will sign formal “Step-Up” agreements with Gov. Angus King during a ceremony today at the State House.

The voluntary initiative encourages business practices that minimize environmental impact. It is based on a collaborative relationship among managers, employees, host communities and state regulators.

Guilford worked with the Department of Environmental Protection to come up with customized goals and performance measures. The plan is grounded in achievement that surpasses the requirements of environmental law. The “Step-Up” program, which stands for Smart Tracks for Environmental Performers and Upward Performers was developed to demonstrate the concepts of Smart Production, a business strategy championed by the King administration. It calls for producing goods and delivering services in ways that enhance economic viability by eliminating or substantially reducing pollution, waste and energy use.

Guilford has pledged to reduce total energy consumption, purchase additional renewable energy, improve the quality of the wastewater discharge, introduce a compostable textile, and assess the commercial viability of a fabric “take back” program.