Hitachi’s Earth Day Actions

Hitachi Global Air Power US, a compressed air solutions company, has launched a native plant restoration project at the company’s Michigan City, Indiana, headquarters. The project will convert a significant portion of the headquarter campus from traditional turf grass into a native prairie habitat.

The restoration project will span five years and transform nearly 7 acres (2.8 ha) of lawn into a prairie ecosystem. The largest transformation will occur in year one, when 85% of the turf will be converted. The remaining 15% will be phased in over the following years.

Areas where turf must remain for functional reasons will be replanted with low-maintenance grass species that require no mowing or irrigation. In addition to reducing approximately 94% of emissions associated with lawn maintenance, the project is expected to dramatically lower water usage across the property — eliminating the need for irrigation in restored areas.

“This project aligns with all three of Hitachi Global Air Power’s core environmental goals: decarbonization by reducing emissions from mowing, resource efficiency by reducing water consumption for irrigation, and harmonization with nature through habitat restoration for pollinators and improved water absorption with deeply rooted native species,” said Katrina Saucier, director of sustainability for Hitachi Global Air Power. “This initiative demonstrates how Hitachi Global Air Power is embracing an innovative approach, using nature as a roadmap for sustainability.”

This project is made possible through a partnership between Hitachi Global Air Power and the LaPorte County Soil and Water Conservation District, with partial funding provided through the Clean Water Indiana grant program. The grant covers professional expertise from a county conservationist, assistance with managing invasive species, and 75% of the native plant and seed costs. Hitachi Global Air Power will fund all remaining project expenses.

The project is expected to reach full sustainability and maturity by 2030.

Headquartered in Michigan City, Hitachi Global Air Power manufactures compressed air solutions that power manufacturing operations around the globe. Its portable compressors provide the air power to build roads and bridges, lay pipelines, and aid in oil and gas mining and production. As part of Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co. Ltd., Hitachi Global Air Power operates ISO 9001 certified factories in Michigan City, Indiana, and Suzhou, China, and sales offices strategically located in Europe, Australia, Southeast Asia, and South and Latin America. Its brands include Hitachi, Sullair, and Champion (Australia).