Keep Oklahoma Beautiful, a nonprofit organization focused on community and environmental improvement, is presenting Apache Corp. with its Vanguard Award for Environmental Excellence in recognition of Apache's work related to natural gas vehicles (NGVs).
In July, Apache donated compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle conversions to six nonprofits and two municipalities in Oklahoma. These donations, which also included a gift card for a one-year supply of CNG fuel for each recipient, represent the type of stewardship that is recognized by the Vanguard Award.
‘The Vanguard Award is presented to a person, institution, community or business for embracing cutting-edge technologies and concepts in support of a sustainable planet,’ says Jeanette Nance, executive director of Keep Oklahoma Beautiful. ‘It's important to recognize all that Apache does to preserve and enhance the state's natural beauty and ensure a healthy, sustainable environment.’
Apache's first CNG station was built in Oklahoma in 2009. Another 20 have followed – with six open to the public – in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Louisiana. The company has also converted more than 470 of its own vehicles to operate on CNG, with long-term plans to convert 80% of its entire U.S. fleet.
