Congratulations to Frigel North America, which was named one of two finalists for the 2008 Illinois Sustainable Technology Award. The award honors companies that have developed technology that supports sustainability efforts and benefits the environment.

Frigel was recognized for its Ecodry system, which replaces traditiional cooling towers and helps conserve energy and reduce noise. According to the company's release announcing the news, a conventional 100-ton cooling tower might use as much as 1 million to 1.5 million gallons of water per year, but an Ecodry system with the same capacity requires only 20,000 to 40,000 gallons.

To be considered for this award, Frigel had to demonstrate how the Ecodry was a unique, proven technological advancement that promoted sustainability. Now that the two finalists have been selected, a committee from the Institute of Science and Sustainable Technology will be conducting on-site visits to see the technology in action and hear from a customer how it helps them operate a more sustainable process.

So some plastics processors are likely to have a role in whether Frigel brings home the gold.

The winner will be announced on Oct. 23. For a list of previous winners (including a company that makes an alternative to plastics packaging last year), check this list on the University of Illinois Sustainable Technology Center's Web site.