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Natchez and Adams County are witnessing a significant diversification with the rise of green and sustainable industries, reshaping the economic landscape and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. With companies like PhiBro, Marcal, World Energy, Syrah, Velocys, and Vidalia Mills leading the way, the region is embracing innovation and sustainability to create a new market niche for manufacturing.

One of the pioneers in this movement is PhiBro, which is utilizing recycled rubber to produce green carbon black for tire manufacturers. By turning waste into a valuable resource, PhiBro not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes a circular economy model that minimizes waste generation and maximizes resource efficiency. This innovative approach not only benefits the environment but also showcases the economic viability of sustainable practices.

Marcal is another key player in the region, using recycled paper to pulp and create paper and tissue products. By incorporating recycled materials into their production process, Marcal is reducing the demand for virgin resources and lowering the carbon footprint of their products.

This commitment to sustainability not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also sets a new standard for the industry as a whole.

World Energy is contributing to the green revolution by utilizing soy oil to produce biodiesel, offering a renewable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. By promoting cleaner energy sources, World Energy is helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change while also creating new opportunities in the energy sector.

Syrah is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market by providing spherical graphite for lithium batteries. This crucial component is essential for the production of high- performance batteries, driving the growth of the EV industry and supporting the transition to a more sustainable transportation system.

Velocys is exploring the use of wood waste to produce jet fuel, offering a greener alternative for the aviation industry. By converting organic waste into sustainable fuel sources, Velocys is paving the way for a more eco-friendly aviation sector while also addressing the challenge of waste management.

Vidalia Mills is leading the charge in sustainable fashion by using environmentally US-grown cotton to produce denim. By focusing on ethical sourcing and production practices, Vidalia Mills is promoting transparency and social responsibility within the fashion industry while also capitalizing on the growing demand for sustainable apparel.

These companies are not only driving economic growth and innovation in Natchez and Adams County but also setting a positive example for the broader manufacturing sector. By prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship, they are demonstrating that profitability and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

As the market niche for green and sustainable industries continues to expand, Natchez and Adams County are well-positioned to attract new businesses and investment opportunities. By fostering a supportive ecosystem for sustainable manufacturing, the region can build on its strengths and capitalize on the growing demand for eco-friendly products and services.

It is important to acknowledge that due to the emerging nature of these markets, some volatility can be anticipated. Moreover, since many of the manufacturing concepts are innovative and involve start-up companies, there is inherent risk associated with investments in these ventures.

It is worth mentioning that locally, we are not exposed to the risks and capital expenditures of these investments, as the City or County does not have public funds invested in the operations.

Our involvement may include selling or leasing property, providing essential permanent infrastructure, and offering standard tax exemptions to support these initiatives.

In conclusion, the rise of green and sustainable industries in Natchez and Adams County is not only helping diversify the local economy but also setting a precedent for responsible business practices. With companies like PhiBro, Marcal, World Energy, Syrah, Velocys, and Vidalia Mills leading the way, the region is poised to become a hub for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the years to come.

Chandler Russ is executive director of Natchez Inc.