ECHO’s PRO ENVIRONMENT approach includes three distinct segments:
ECHO products may be changing from gray to orange, but we’ve been thinking “green” for three decades. Environmental awareness is a cornerstone of ECHO’s and Kioritz Corporation’s corporate philosophy. We have a long history of developing technology, relationships, and processes that keep the environment at the forefront. Whether it’s emissions reduction, contributing to conservation initiatives and habitat restoration, or a recycling program, we are proud of the achievements we’ve made.
The talk today is all about engine technology and its impact on emissions and fuel economy. ECHO has been a leader in technological innovation for the past 30 years. We are continually developing equipment that is more productive and more efficient. ECHO’s current engine technology, Power Boost Vortex™, is the latest step in developing 2-stroke engines that are emissions compliant and fuel-efficient. In fact, ECHO uses strictly, high-performance 2-stroke engines that meet or exceed EPA and CARB emissions levels as well as reduce fuel consumption. Here are just some of the facts about ECHO 2-stroke engines and emissions:
  • ECHO has reduced engine emissions on most models by up to 85% since 1997
  • ECHO has more engine families (15) that meet or exceed EPA-required emission levels than any other outdoor power equipment manufacturer
  • ECHO has more models (100% of our product line) certified to the EPA’s highest useful life rating (Category ‘A’ or 300 Hours) than any other outdoor power equipment manufacturer
  • ECHO’s Power Boost Vortex™ engines are more fuel efficient than their counterparts produced just a few years ago
  • ECHO has produced more than 2 million products that use Power Boost Vortex™ technology

ECHO Power Boost Vortex™ technology can be found in over 40 ECHO models today:
Chain Saws
• CS-330T
• CS-330MX4
• CS-360T
• CS-370
• CS-400

Power Prunersฎ
• PPF-210
• PPT-265
Trimmers and
Brushcutters
• GT-200R
• GT-200i
• GT-251
• SRM-210
• SRM-210i
• SRM-210SB
• SRM-210U
• SRM-265
• SRM-265S
• SRM-265T
• SRM-265U
• SRM-280
• SRM-280S
• SRM-280T
• SRM-280U
Pro Attachment Series™
• PAS-265

 Edgers
• PE-200
• PE-265
• PE-280

Blowers and
Shred ‘N’ Vacฎ
• PB-251
• PB-255
• PB-265L
• ES-210
Hedge Trimmers
• HC-150
• HC-150i
• HC-165
• HC-185
• HC-235
• HC-245
• HCA-265
• SHC-210
• SHC-212
• SHC-265

Tiller/Cultivator
• TC-210i

That’s quite a list of models showcasing incredible 2-stroke technology!

In fact ECHO products are built so well, through breakthrough technologies and quality manufacturing, that we’re able to offer the best consumer warranty in the marketplace – a full 5 YEARS!

Low Noise Engine Technology
But engine technology isn’t solely related to emissions and fuel consumption. Blower noise has become a hot topic and no manufacturer has more “Low Noise” blowers than ECHO. In fact, ECHO was the first manufacturer to produce a 65dB(A)-rated blower and the only one with handheld blowers rated this low. The ECHO PB-251, PB-255, PB-265L and PB-460LN models are all rated at 65dB(A) (per ANSI B175.2-2002), which is the lowest in the industry and what many communities require for “noise sensitive environments”. And ECHO remains the leader in low-noise blowers having produced over 1,000,000 units since 2000. A blower’s impact on the environment goes beyond simply using a low-noise, low-emissions model however, so click here for guidelines on proper blower operation which details acceptable leaf blower use.

 

ECHO “Low Smoke” Oil Technology
 ECHO PowerBlend® XTended Life™ oil is yet another technological innovation by ECHO. This oil, made exclusively for ECHO, is specifically formulated to provide low smoke exhaust and other engine-helpful benefits. As a result of extensive research, PowerBlend® XTended Life™ oil:

  • Is a synthetic blend oil that’s certified for use in all air-cooled, 2-stroke, outdoor power equipment engines
  • Exceeds ISO-L-EGD and JASO M345/FD requirements
  • Has superior cleaning capabilities
  • Minimizes exhaust port blockage
  • Protects against rust, wear and corrosion
  • Contains a fuel stabilizer that doubles fuel life
A well-rounded environmental program needs to go beyond technology, and ECHO is proud to include conservation efforts as part of our program. Through partnerships with like-minded organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and Quail Unlimited, ECHO has had a hand in restoring millions of acres of both wetland and upland habitat. ECHO is committed to manufacturing equipment to maintain your home and support the preservation of other wildlife habitats.
ECHO is a corporate sponsor of Ducks Unlimited (DU), and through a multi-year agreement known as Partners for Home and Habitat, ECHO has helped to raise much needed funds that benefit DU’s ambitious “Wetlands for Tomorrow” program. Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest and most effective private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organization. The Wetlands for Tomorrow program disburses funds aiding nine different initiatives. Over the past 2-1/2 years, from equipment donations at fund-raising banquets all across the country, ECHO has helped DU raise well over $300,000 towards wetland habitat restoration.

ECHO is also a supporter in the land management programs of Quail Unlimited and the National Wild Turkey Federation. Through product donations to Quail Unlimited’s Habitat Improvement (HIT) Teams, ECHO equipment helps provide initial work on private lands to help our neighbors—farmers and outdoorsmen—get started in improving the land for upland game. Led by a regional biologist who is extensively trained in habitat practices, HIT teams perform a valuable service to landowners and agencies alike. Similarly, the National Wild Turkey Federation’s “Get in the Game” television program’s “Land Management” segments use ECHO products as well, helping viewers learn how to get the most of their land through proper management and the right tools.

ECHO products are the equipment of choice for conservation groups and landowners who want to improve their habitat not only for themselves, but also for others.



Actions taken today mean a better tomorrow so ECHO Incorporated has instituted a number of sustainability initiatives as the third part of our “PRO ENVIRONMENT” program. The EPA defines sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” ECHO has taken sustainability measures across many facets of its manufacturing process including the following achievements:
  • ECHO products are packaged in recyclable cardboard consisting of at least 35% post-consumer product
  • ECHO recycled 1,470,169 pounds of corrugated material in 2007
  • ECHO recycled 162,753 pounds of paper in 2007
  • ECHO recycled 162,000 pounds of nylon material in 2007
  • ECHO recycled 67,577 pounds of aluminum and steel in 2007
  • ECHO utilizes T5 high-output fluorescent light fixtures which cut electricity usage in half resulting in a reduction of 447,694 Kwhrs
  • ECHO uses “smart lights” in our warehouse that only illuminate when a fork lift is in the aisle
  • ECHO uses occupancy sensors in private offices and conference rooms which automatically turn off after 20 minutes when empty
  • ECHO uses large fans in the manufacturing facility to help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption
  • ECHO has instituted a consumer electronics and battery recycling program to help keep these materials out of landfills

There are many everyday activities you can do to help lead a “sustainable” life for yourself and future generations.
Here are just a few examples:

  • Properly dispose of unused gas in all outdoor power equipment after each season, and replace the air filter, spark plug, and fuel filter of outdoor power equipment prior to each season – using fresh fuel and parts will keep equipment running at peak performance and reduce emissions
  • Take extra care when filling a gas tank; spilled gasoline releases emissions into the air
  • Fill engine fuel tanks only ¾ full allowing room for fuel expansion
  • Keep gas caps tight to prevent evaporation into the atmosphere
  • Use energy-efficient lighting like compact fluorescent bulbs that can cut energy consumption by 50%
  • A re-circulating ceiling fan can help cool your house in the summer and keep it warmer in the winter
  • Winterize your home by replacing worn weather stripping around doors and windows
  • Close unused air vents to allow better circulation to occupied rooms
  • While away for extended periods, unplug unneeded appliances like TVs, DVD players and computers – these can still draw energy even when turned off
  • Plant a tree to employ natural shade around the outside of your home reducing both temperature and energy consumption
  • When possible, seek alternative transportation methods like mass transit, car pooling, riding a bike or walking
  • Install a skylight to take advantage of natural lighting
  • Install energy-efficient doors and windows


Through our “PRO ENVIRONMENT” program and its three segments:
Technology, Conservation and Sustainability, ECHO proves once again we are
the leader in the industry – and not just for product innovation.