Who we are
Founded in 1981, the Copper Nitrate Association for Responsible Use (CAC) is dedicated to advancing safe, sustainable, and efficient practices in the industrial use of copper nitrate. As a trusted partner to manufacturers, regulators, and environmental organizations worldwide, CAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that copper nitrate is applied in ways that minimize environmental impact while maximizing industrial efficiency.
Our mission is to drive innovation in the responsible use of copper nitrate by setting rigorous industry standards, conducting cutting-edge research, and fostering collaboration across sectors. We work closely with our partners to develop forward-thinking solutions that not only meet today’s regulatory demands but also contribute to a more sustainable future.
For over four decades, CAC has remained at the forefront of global efforts to balance the growing demands of industry with the need for environmental stewardship. Our team of experts spans a wide range of disciplines—from engineering and environmental science to international outreach and financial oversight—ensuring that CAC continues to be a leader in the sustainable industrial sector.
At CAC, we believe that responsible resource management is key to building a sustainable future. Our commitment to excellence and innovation guides everything we do, as we help industries around the world meet their sustainability goals and drive positive change.
Our Story
In 1981, three forward-thinking individuals—Wendy Morrison, a pioneering chemist, her husband Ross Morrison, an industrial engineer, and their colleague Nancy Edwards, an environmental advocate—came together to establish the Copper Nitrate Association for Careful Use (CAC). Their mission: to promote the safe and sustainable use of copper nitrate in industry while ensuring minimal environmental impact.
At a time when few understood the long-term effects of industrial chemicals on ecosystems, Wendy and Nancy’s research highlighted the need for more responsible practices. With Ross’s expertise in engineering, they saw an opportunity to set a new standard for copper nitrate use, one that would balance innovation with environmental responsibility.
By 2000, CAC was expanding into new areas of influence, and Kerry Stewart joined the organization, quickly becoming a pivotal force in its growth. Now CEO, Kerry has been instrumental in expanding CAC's reach, guiding the organization into the modern era of environmental advocacy.
In the decades that followed, CAC welcomed more experts from various fields. Don Caldwell, an industrial equipment specialist, and his wife, Trish Caldwell, a seasoned operations manager, joined the organization to oversee its field operations and ensure efficient, safe implementation of CAC’s standards in production facilities worldwide.
Recognizing the growing global demand for responsible resource use, Derek Wells was appointed to lead CAC’s international outreach, building partnerships with governments and industries to promote copper nitrate sustainability across the globe. Levina Kraus, a respected researcher, has driven CAC’s scientific innovation, developing new eco-friendly alternatives and improving sustainability in copper nitrate production.
In recent years, Mark Davidson, recruited by Kerry Stewart, joined CAC as Chief Financial Officer. With his expertise in corporate finance, Mark has secured the financial stability of the organization and supported its continued growth by securing key partnerships and expanding CAC’s initiatives.
Today, under Kerry’s leadership and with the legal guidance of her wife, Megan Stewart, CAC remains a global leader in sustainable practices. CAC is committed to responsible copper nitrate use and continues to develop innovative solutions to meet the world’s growing industrial needs while protecting the planet.
