CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE: CNX) said April 7 that its operational practices were certified by the Center for Sustainable Shale Development (CSSD). The certification, independently validated by Bureau Veritas, confirms CONSOL's compliance with all 15 CSSD performance standards related to environmental stewardship of air and water. These standards were designed to exceed the regulatory minimums established by state and federal regulatory bodies.

Regarding safety, the company’s “Positively CONSOL” initiative, introduced across all operational and corporate staff, strengthens the “absolute zero” safety culture. The overall recordable incident rate in 2014 was 1.62, down from 1.72 in 2013. During 2014, natural gas production increased by 30%. Behaviors driving decision making and discretionary efforts are the focus of “Positively CONSOL,” the company added.

Regarding environment, the company improved its year-on-year compliance metrics by 6%, while also reducing violations by 56% since reporting began in 2011. The CSSD recognized the company’s commitment to environmental protection.

Regarding community, CONSOL invested almost $5 million in the communities within its operating regions.

"Our core values of safety and environmental compliance are the foundation of our business model and part of our DNA as a company. We constantly strive to push the envelope in terms of innovation, and to go above and beyond the regulatory baseline that governs our operations. This CSSD certification is clear recognition of that commitment, and of our commitment to being a good neighbor and true partner in the communities where we live and work," Nick Deluliis, president and CEO, said.

The fourth annual corporate responsibility report was also released, CONSOL said. It details execution against key performance indicators, and outlines activities and new initiatives undertaken during the past year toward comprehensive corporate responsibility goals.

"Our fourth annual report continues to build on goals and objectives aimed at our commitment to responsible business practices across all operational and support functions within the company. Our commitment to these concepts is reinforced by the belief that such practices are not only the right thing to do, but that they also provide CONSOL Energy and our customers with competitive advantages in today's global marketplace," Katharine Fredriksen, senior vice president of environmental strategy and regulatory affairs, said.

Canonsburg, Pa.-based CONSOL Energy Inc. operates in the Appalachian Basin.