As part their commitment to the environment and improve the image of the industry they operate in, Pontypool-based Powertron Batteries have successfully worked towards and gained a Level 2 Green Dragon Environmental Award.

Established over six years ago by Paul Betts, ex-managing director of B.I.G Batteries, Powertron Batteries supplies batteries and associated services to a constantly growing client base throughout Wales and the South of England.

Batteries used by many of the local police forces to operate their speed cameras are supplied by Powertron as well as the banks of 45kg batteries used to power the rolling stock for Arriva Trains.

The Green Dragon Environmental Award is about making a commitment to environmental management.

The standard is made up of five steps each incorporating the key elements of planning, taking action, checking progress and reviewing achievements to realise continual environmental improvement. Large and small organisations, in any industry or business sector, gain recognition for effective environmental management. There are 598 organisations operating in Wales of all shapes and sizes that have already made the commitment.

Explaining why Powertron Batteries made the commitment to achieving a Green Dragon Environmental Award, Paul Betts said: "In a rapidly changing world where natural power resources are in fast decline and mankind is destroying his environment, we have taken a pro-active decision to specialise in the design, installation and support of sustainable and renewable energy systems using the latest technology and cost effective products. "From July 2005 it has been illegal to dispose of hazardous waste without a license and the new regulations enable the authorities to impose on-the-spot fines of £300 for each breach of the law. "We are now registered by the Environment Agency to provide a full and complete battery service including the disposal of them."

Tim Williams, business adviser for Newport & Gwent Enterprise, the leading provider of business support in South Wales helped Powertron Batteries work toward the Green Dragon Environmental Award.

He said: "From a business perspective, competitiveness is vital to maintain the success of a company. The Green Dragon Environmental Award will give Powertron Batteries a competitive advantage. Many organisations have recognised the opportunity to increase their competitiveness by raising their environmental performance but there are still relatively few, especially in the specialist battery industry that has actually made a commitment."

Andrew Davies, Minister for Economic Development and Transport has welcomed the commitment to the environment demonstrated by Powertron Batteries.

He said: "This is a significant achievement for the company. Good environmental practice is paramount for the success of modern businesses and Powertron Batteries should be commended for their investment of resources to implement the changes in their operations to benefit both the business and the environment."