ECHO’s PRO ENVIRONMENT approach includes three distinct segments:
ECHO products may be changing from gray to orange, but we’ve been thinking “green” for three decades. Environmental awareness is a cornerstone of ECHO’s and Kioritz Corporation’s corporate philosophy. We have a long history of developing technology, relationships, and processes that keep the environment at the forefront. Whether it’s emissions reduction, contributing to conservation initiatives and habitat restoration, or a recycling program, we are proud of the achievements we’ve made.
The talk today is all about engine technology and its impact on emissions and fuel economy. ECHO has been a leader in technological innovation for the past 30 years. We are continually developing equipment that is more productive and more efficient. ECHO’s current engine technology, Power Boost Vortex™, is the latest step in developing 2-stroke engines that are emissions compliant and fuel-efficient. In fact, ECHO uses strictly, high-performance 2-stroke engines that meet or exceed EPA and CARB emissions levels as well as reduce fuel consumption. Here are just some of the facts about ECHO 2-stroke engines and emissions:
  • ECHO has reduced engine emissions on most models by up to 85% since 1997
  • ECHO has more engine families (15) that meet or exceed EPA-required emission levels than any other outdoor power equipment manufacturer
  • ECHO has more models (100% of our product line) certified to the EPA’s highest useful life rating (Category ‘A’ or 300 Hours) than any other outdoor power equipment manufacturer
  • ECHO’s Power Boost Vortex™ engines are more fuel efficient than their counterparts produced just a few years ago
  • ECHO has produced more than 2 million products that use Power Boost Vortex™ technology
  • ECHO Power Boost Vortex™ technology can be found in over 40 ECHO models today. Look for the Power Boost Vortex logo on the product pages.

“Buy M.E.” Products
In order to help you determine which ECHO products meet EPA emission requirements, ECHO introduces the “Buy M.E.” program. M.E. stands for “Meets Emissions” – and that simply means the particular model meets or exceeds EPA emission requirements.   Look for this special decal adhered to the following models at retail locations. There are over 40 models that carry this decal – way more than any other outdoor power equipment manufacturer – including:
Buy M.E.
Chain Saws
• CS-310
• CS-370
• CS-400


Power Pruners®
• PPF-225
• PPF-265
• PPT-265S

Trimmers
• GT-225
• GT-230
• SRM-225
• SRM-225i
• SRM-225SB
• SRM-230
• SRM-230S
• SRM-265
• SRM-265S
• SRM-265T


Brushcutters
• SRM-225U
• SRM-230U
• SRM-265U

Pro Attachment Series™
• PAS-230
• PAS-265

Edgers
• PE-225
• PE-230
• PE-265


Blowers

• PB-251
• PB-255
• PB-265L
Shred ‘N’ Vacs®
• ES-210
• ES-230
• ES-255


Hedge Trimmers
• HC-150
• HC-150i
• HC-155
• HC-165
• HC-185
• HC-235
• HC-245
• SHC-225
• SHC-225S
• SHC-265
• HCA-265

That’s quite a list of models showcasing incredible 2-stroke technology!

In fact ECHO products are built so well, through breakthrough technologies and quality manufacturing, that we’re able to offer the best consumer warranty in the marketplace – a full 5 YEARS!

Low Noise Engine Technology
But engine technology isn’t solely related to emissions and fuel consumption. Blower noise has become a hot topic and no manufacturer has more “Low Noise” blowers than ECHO. In fact, ECHO was the first manufacturer to produce a 65dB(A)-rated blower and the only one with handheld blowers rated this low. The ECHO PB-251, PB-255, PB-265L and PB-460LN models are all rated at 65dB(A) (per ANSI B175.2-2002), which is the lowest in the industry and what many communities require for “noise sensitive environments”. And ECHO remains the leader in low-noise blowers having produced over 1,000,000 units since 2000. A blower’s impact on the environment goes beyond simply using a low-noise, low-emissions model however, so click here for guidelines on proper blower operation which details acceptable leaf blower use.

 

ECHO “Low Smoke” Oil Technology
ECHO PowerBlend® XTended Life™ oil is yet another technological innovation by ECHO. This oil, made exclusively for ECHO, is specifically formulated to provide low smoke exhaust and other engine-helpful benefits. As a result of extensive research, PowerBlend® XTended Life™ oil:

  • Is a synthetic blend oil that’s certified for use in all air-cooled, 2-stroke, outdoor power equipment engines
  • Exceeds ISO-L-EGD and JASO M345/FD requirements
  • Has superior cleaning capabilities
  • Minimizes exhaust port blockage
  • Protects against rust, wear and corrosion
  • Contains a fuel stabilizer that doubles fuel life

A well-rounded environmental program needs to go beyond technology, and ECHO is proud to include conservation efforts as part of our program. Through partnerships with like-minded organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and Quail Unlimited, ECHO has had a hand in restoring millions of acres of both wetland and upland habitat. ECHO is committed to manufacturing equipment to maintain your home and support the preservation of other habitats.

Ducks Unlimited (DU) is the world’s largest and most effective private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organization. Over the past 3 years, from equipment donations at fund-raising banquets all across the country, ECHO has helped DU raise well over $300,000 towards wetland habitat restoration.

The National Wild Turkey Federation’s “Get in the Game” television program’s “Land Management” segments use ECHO products, helping viewers learn how to get the most of their land through proper management and the right tools.

Through product donations to Quail Unlimited’s Habitat Improvement (HIT) Teams, ECHO equipment helps provide initial work on private lands to help our neighbors—farmers and outdoorsmen—get started in improving the land for upland game. Led by a regional biologist who is extensively trained in habitat practices, HIT teams perform a valuable service to landowners and agencies alike.

ECHO equipment is the choice for conservation groups and landowners who want to improve their habitat not only for themselves, but also for others.

ECHO is also working with the American Forests organization on a re-forestation program.





Actions taken today mean a better tomorrow so ECHO Incorporated has instituted a number of sustainability initiatives as the third part of our “PRO ENVIRONMENT” program. The EPA defines sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. ECHO has taken sustainability measures across many facets of its manufacturing process including the following achievements:
  • ECHO products are packaged in recyclable cardboard consisting of at least 35% post-consumer product
  • ECHO recycled 1,214,935 pounds of corrugated material in 2008
  • ECHO recycled 300,480 pounds of paper and nylon material in 2008
  • ECHO recycled 98,314 pounds of aluminum and steel in 2008
  • ECHO utilizes T5 high-output fluorescent light fixtures which cut electricity usage in half resulting in a reduction of 447,694 Kwhrs
  • ECHO uses “smart lights” in our warehouse that only illuminate when a fork lift is in the aisle
  • ECHO uses occupancy sensors in private offices and conference rooms which automatically turn off after 20 minutes when empty
  • ECHO uses large fans in the manufacturing facility to help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption
  • ECHO has instituted a consumer electronics and battery recycling program to help keep these materials out of landfills
  • ECHO uses photo cell technology in its outdoor lighting to turn lights off during daylight hours
  • ECHO HVAC systems are controlled using programmable thermostats to heat or cool a space only when people are present
And ECHO Power Equipment Canada (EPEC), ECHO’s exclusive Canadian distributor, is incorporating sustainability in its operations.
  • EPEC was the first recipient of the Landscape Ontario Environmental Award in 2003
  • EPEC was honored as the British Columbia Landscape and Nursery Association’s “Supplier of the Year” in 2003 for its support of campaigns to reduce urban noise and to combat forest fire damage
  • EPEC uses only recycled paper for its advertising mailers (over 2,000,000 per year!)
  • EPEC recycles all waste cardboard packaging and boxes

There are many everyday activities you can do to help lead a “sustainable” life for yourself and future generations.
Here are just a few examples:


  • Properly dispose of unused gas in all outdoor power equipment after each season, and replace the air filter, spark plug, and fuel filter of outdoor power equipment prior to each season – using fresh fuel and parts will keep equipment running at peak performance and reduce emissions
  • Take extra care when filling a gas tank; spilled gasoline releases emissions into the air
  • Fill engine fuel tanks only ¾ full allowing room for fuel expansion
  • Keep gas caps tight to prevent evaporation into the atmosphere
  • Use energy-efficient lighting like compact fluorescent bulbs that can cut energy consumption by 50%
  • A re-circulating ceiling fan can help cool your house in the summer and keep it warmer in the winter
  • Winterize your home by replacing worn weather stripping around doors and windows
  • Close unused air vents to allow better circulation to occupied rooms
  • While away for extended periods, unplug unneeded appliances like TVs, DVD players and computers – these can still draw energy even when turned off
  • Plant a tree to employ natural shade around the outside of your home reducing both temperature and energy consumption
  • When possible, seek alternative transportation methods like mass transit, car pooling, riding a bike or walking
  • Install a skylight to take advantage of natural lighting
  • Install energy-efficient doors and windows
ECHO’s sustainability efforts go beyond what we do at our corporate headquarters. ECHO also supports community gardening and promotes the use of mulch.

ECHO and Organic Gardening
ECHO is a proud supporter of Organic Gardening magazine’s WaterWorks program. This program helps community gardens (15 in 2008). As these gardens are usually built in abandoned lots, getting water to them can be an issue. Water catchment systems, which take water from surrounding rooftops and elsewhere, are installed at these gardens giving the community volunteers access to water. Community gardens bring together people of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and experiences and ECHO is proud to support this program and provide equipment to the gardens as well.

The garden volunteers are very appreciative of the ECHO equipment donated. Read their testimonials.

ECHO and Garden Mulch
It’s happening every day, more and more municipalities are banning the burning of leaves, twigs, pruned limbs, etc. in favor of more ecologically minded alternatives. One of the alternatives is to chip or shred these materials in easily biodegradable or re-usable materials. And ECHO Bear Cat makes the most reliable machines available. Through the use of ECHO Bear Cat Chippers and Chipper/Shredders, you can re-use yard debris as mulch or compost. Benefits of mulch include:
  • Mulch blocks weed seeds from sunlight so they do not germinate
  • Mulch promotes better water retention
  • Mulch provides need nutrients as it decomposes over time
  • Mulch moderates soil temperatures
So look into mulching yard debris, instead of burning it, and you can continue sustainability efforts in your garden.


Through our “PRO ENVIRONMENT” program and its three segments:
Technology, Conservation and Sustainability, ECHO proves once again we are
the leader in the industry – and not just for product innovation.