Cascades' American mills named Energy Star(R) partners

KINGSEY FALLS, QC, Sept. 13 /CNW Telbec/ - Cascades Inc. (CAS on the Toronto stock exchange), a leader in the recycling and manufacturing of green packaging products and tissue paper, has received confirmation from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that its American mills have been accepted as Energy Star(R) partners. Through this arrangement, the mills in question are affirming their commitment to meet the high performance standards set by the EPA and thereby protect the environment thanks to sound management of the energy resources available to them.

"Cascades is a pioneer in sustainable development and, as such, strives to constantly reduce its environmental footprint", asserts Alain Lemaire, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cascades. "This position involves, among other things, reducing energy consumption in our mills and, where possible, using clean, renewable energy sources." Moreover, Cascades is the only North American papermaker to employ a team of energy efficiency specialists. Last year, that experienced team enabled Cascades to cut the intensity of its greenhouse gas emissions by 3% compared to the previous year.

By becoming Energy Star(R) partners, the Cascades mills located in the United States will carry their responsible energy consumption efforts one step further: using the tools provided by the EPA, they will be able to measure and compare their performance more accurately, optimize their action plan for reducing energy consumption and draw inspiration from the winning strategies adopted by other Energy Star(R) partners to further improve their performance.

Energy Star(R) is the national symbol of energy efficiency and excellence in environmental protection that is most recognized by the American public. Through this program, the EPA sets targets for achieving superior energy performance.

Founded in 1964, Cascades produces, converts and markets packaging and tissue products composed mainly of recycled fibres. Cascades employs nearly 12,500 men and women who work in some 100 production units located in North America and in Europe. Cascades' management philosophy, its more than 45 years of experience in recycling, its continuous efforts in research and development are strengths which enable the company to create innovative products for its customers. The Cascades shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol CAS.

For further information: Hubert Bolduc, Vice-President, Communications and Public Affairs, Tel: [phone], Cell.: 514 912-3790