Hitachi Global Air Power Converts Turf to Prairie in New Eco-Focused Initiative
Seven Acres of Grass Become Native Habitat. Slow Clap.
Hitachi Global Air Power (maker of the famed Sullair brand of compressors) is turning its Michigan City, Indiana, headquarters into a showcase for environmental restoration. The compressed air solutions leader recently broke ground on a five-year native plant restoration project, converting nearly seven acres of lawn into a prairie ecosystem. The project will reduce emissions, lower water use and boost biodiversity on the company’s campus. The largest transformation will happen in year one, with 85 percent of the lawn replaced by native plantings. The remaining area will be phased in by 2030. From the press release:
“This project aligns with all three of Hitachi Global Air Power’s core environmental goals: decarbonization by reducing emissions from mowing, resource efficiency by reducing water consumption for irrigation, and harmonization with nature through habitat restoration for pollinators and improved water absorption with deeply rooted native species,” said Katrina Saucier, Director of Sustainability for Hitachi Global Air Power. “This initiative demonstrates how Hitachi Global Air Power is embracing an innovative approach, using nature as a roadmap for sustainability.”
Prairie Project Embraces Low-Impact Landscaping
Where turf is still needed, Hitachi will use low-maintenance grass species requiring no mowing or irrigation. This change alone is expected to reduce lawn maintenance emissions by 94 percent. Restored prairie zones will support pollinators and increase water absorption thanks to deep-rooted native species. The company is working with the LaPorte County Soil and Water Conservation District on the initiative. Funding support comes from the Clean Water Indiana grant program, which helps cover expert guidance, invasive species management, and most seed costs.
Eco-Friendly Action Meets Corporate Vision
This native plant restoration project fits directly into Hitachi Global Air Power’s larger sustainability mission. It supports an environmental vision of decarbonization, resource efficiency and harmony with nature. The Michigan City campus will begin herbicide treatment and native seeding this month. Monitoring and invasive control will follow throughout summer. Native tree plantings and additional seeding will continue into 2026.
Not Just Words: Hitachi Is Walking the Green Talk
This isn’t Hitachi Global Air Power’s first move toward sustainability. The company has taken major steps to reduce emissions in its core product lines — especially with its electric air compressors.
A Closer Look at the Sullair E425H Electric Compressor
Earlier this year, Hitachi Global Air Power debuted the Sullair E425H, an electric portable rotary screw compressor that delivers 425 CFM at 150 psi. This unit actually plugs in to work and does not have batteries. It’s the latest example of Hitachi embracing cleaner, quieter equipment. Built for harsh jobsite conditions, the E425H features:
- Patent-pending swing-out coolers for easy cleaning
- A new condensate management system that removes the need for offsite disposal
- Remote monitoring and diagnostics via the Sullair AirLinx platform
- A 7-in. touchscreen control panel for intuitive operation
- Zero on-site emissions, ideal for indoor use and noise-sensitive areas
The E425H follows the earlier E1035H, a larger electric unit introduced at CONEXPO 2023. Together, they mark Hitachi’s strategic push into electric-powered compressed air.
Reminder: The Sullair Name Lives On
In 2023, Sullair officially changed its corporate name to Hitachi Global Air Power. The move unified its brand under Hitachi’s broader vision. However, Sullair’s name remains intact on products. That familiar green branding continues across compressor lines. Sales and service centers are also transitioning to the Hitachi Air Center name, strengthening national visibility while keeping local support in place. Independent distributors remain unaffected.
A Brand Evolving with Purpose
The shift from traditional landscaping to native habitat mirrors the company’s larger transformation. From rolling out cutting-edge electric compressors to restoring pollinator ecosystems, Hitachi Global Air Power is proving that heavy industry and sustainability can — and should — work together. For more on Hitachi Global Air Power’s environmental efforts and product innovations, visit www.hitachiglobalairpower.com.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
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