TORONTO, ONTARIO - April 7, 2010 /CNW/ - The Ontario Environment Industry Association (ONEIA) elected Robert (Bob) J. Redhead as chair of its board of directors on Monday, April 5, 2010. Mr. Redhead, Executive Director, Government Affairs for Newalta Corporation (TSX:NAL), replaces Mark Vanderheyden, a principal of Guelph-based environmental consulting firm RWDI.
"It's an exciting time for Ontario's environment firms and the association that represents them," Mr. Redhead said. "As we emerge from the recession, industries across the province will be looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact and our companies will be there to help them do just that."
As one of the province's leading industrial waste management and product recovery companies, Newalta typifies the firms that make up Ontario's environment industry. Employing more than 65,000 people at more than 2,700 different companies, this growing sector is made up of firms that provide environmental and economic benefits. From waste and recycling companies to clean technology start-ups, consulting firms and new energy companies, ONEIA represents a broad range of organizations that make up this vibrant sector.
In the same election, Derek Webb, vice-president of Guelph-based Biorem Technologies, assumed the position of Vice-Chair. John Willms, of Toronto law firm Willms and Shier Environmental Lawyers LLP, became Secretary, while outgoing Chair Vanderheyden assumed the position of Treasurer.
Established in 1991, ONEIA is the business association representing the interests of the environment industry in Ontario. ONEIA's membership includes product, technology and service companies, institutes, universities and governments. Through their innovation and experience in Ontario and around the world, ONEIA members provide market-driven solutions for society's most pressing environmental problems.