ibelco has received the Wildlife Habitat Council’s (WHC) Conservation Silver Certification® for its Crystal Plant site in Spruce Pine. This certification recognizes Sibelco’s exceptional conservation efforts and wildlife programs.
Cathy Blervacq, Vice President of Sustainability at Sibelco, expressed pride in the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
“We are proud of our strong commitment to our community and environmental stewardship, which we demonstrate through our many longstanding wildlife and habitat programs,” said Blervacq.
These programs include wildlife monitoring, pollinator gardens, an American chestnut plot, hay fields, and maintaining a river. Additionally, Sibelco provides educational programs on bird habitats and garden conservation to local schools.
The Crystal WHC program is managed by local employee volunteers who engage in wildlife habitat management, conservation education, and community outreach. The WHC’s certification process includes a third-party evaluation of conservation programs.
In addition to the recognized efforts at the Crystal Plant site, Sibelco has been actively involved in several other local conservation and community projects. These include the maintenance of the Overmountain Victory Trail, which features a 0.5-mile certified segment with a new kiosk at Carter’s Ridge Road, and significant contributions to the North Toe River Watershed Partnership.
Sibelco’s efforts have led to the removal of the North Toe River from the EPA’s 303(d) list of impaired waters, following extensive restoration and best management practices to reduce turbidity.
The Wildlife Habitat Council promotes habitat conservation on corporate lands through education and partnerships. Their certification programs translate corporate sustainability goals into measurable actions that support biodiversity and community health.