Johnson Controls and Chinese Government Take the International Stage On Recycling Best Practices for Automotive Batteries

MILWAUKEE, June 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Through an alliance designed to identify global best practices in automotive battery recycling, Johnson Controls and the Chinese National Government are touring world-class smelters in Europe and North America today. Johnson Controls, the world leader in lead acid battery production and recycling, is hosting the 10-day tour that will illustrate the most efficient and effective processes for lead acid and advanced chemistry transportation battery recycling.

In the summer of 2006, Johnson Controls agreed to sponsor a study that will eventually help China adopt a better closed-loop recycling system in which manufacturers reclaim the lead, plastic and acid that comprise each battery, thereby standardizing the process and helping to cut down on pollution and related health risks. The tour will serve as an international benchmark for China's larger global recycling study initiatives.

"Johnson Controls is committed to smart environments for a better life -- globally. We look forward to assisting the Chinese National Government in proposing new policy initiatives that will make the lead recycling process in China as efficient and environmentally friendly as anywhere in the world," said John Sibson, Executive Director Corporate Strategy and leader of the tour's Johnson Controls delegation.

The tour is visiting four smelter sites located in Germany, Spain, Mexico and North America as well as state-of-the-art battery manufacturing and distribution facilities. The delegation consists of seven Johnson Controls executives and an 11-person Chinese study team that includes government officials and members of the China Automotive Technology and Research Center.

According to Sibson, through tours and presentations Johnson Controls will highlight current recycling regulations, examples of all secondary lead smelting furnace and process technologies and provide an overview of the environmental health and safety standards practiced by Western smelters.

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive experience, building efficiency and power solutions. The company provides innovative automotive interiors that help make driving more comfortable, safe and enjoyable. For buildings, it offers products and services that optimize energy use and improve comfort and security. Johnson Controls also provides batteries for automobiles and hybrid-electric vehicles, along with systems engineering and service expertise. Johnson Controls has 136,000 employees in more than 1,000 locations serving customers in 125 countries. Founded in 1885, the company is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com/