More than 100 manufacturing leaders, regulators and environmental professionals gathered in Columbus yesterday for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association’s (OMA) Environmental Summit, hosted in partnership with the Ohio Environmental Service Industries (OESI). The event focused on policies, partnerships and technologies shaping environmental progress in Ohio.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel delivered the keynote address, outlining federal priorities under the theme “Powering the Great American Comeback.” Vogel highlighted efforts to restore U.S. energy dominance, streamline permitting, advance AI leadership, revitalize American auto manufacturing and strengthen federal and state cooperation. She also emphasized the role of energy independence in lowering costs and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries.

Vogel pointed to Ohio projects including redevelopment at the former Perfect Products site in Malvern, cleanup work at the Cuyahoga Gorge Dam in Akron and environmental progress at the Great Stone Viaduct brownfield in Bellaire as examples of how environmental restoration and economic growth can advance together.

Ohio EPA Director John Logue and agency division chiefs provided updates on air, water and waste programs, emphasizing new compliance and sustainability initiatives for manufacturers.

OMA President Ryan Augsburger said Ohio manufacturers are proving that clean growth is real growth, driven by collaboration and practical policy.

OESI President Jeff Hunyor praised the strong partnership with Ohio EPA and said the organization looks forward to expanding collaboration with federal regulators to support safe, innovative environmental practices statewide. 11/14/2025