 |
| News > Event recycling is picking up on base |
|
|
| |
| Photos | |
 |
KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. – Chuck Cordova, civil engineering asset optimization technician, uses a portable recycling container August 8 at Kirtland AFB. (Photo by Todd Berenger)
|
Download HiRes
|
|
|
|
Event recycling is picking up on base
Posted 8/10/2012 Updated 8/10/2012
Email story
Print story
by John Cochran
377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
8/10/2012 - KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Patrons at the 2012 "Summer Bash" may have used or at least noticed the many portable recycling containers for plastic bottles and aluminum cans set up Aug. 3 throughout Hardin Field.
That was the most recent outdoor event on base that included them, under an initiative to divert more recyclable material from the base's waste stream. The expanded collection effort began October 9 during the base's open house and air show.
The solid waste program manager at Kirtland AFB said the portable containers have some properties that help people identify their purpose.
"The labels tell people what's supposed to go in there, the restrictive openings at the top indicate that only round items like bottles or cans go in them, and people can see through the clear bag, to see what's already in there," said Katrina Wheelock.
She said the portable units are mostly used at outdoor events, such as unit picnics.
The movable containers are the latest addition to the base's recycling program, which includes multiple blue carts at about 150 locations for curbside collection, as well as a community drop-off at the commissary.
"My goal is to start creating a culture of recycling across the installation. To get the word out and show people that recycling is something we do," Wheelock said.
She praised the people around base who make it easier for others to recycle.
"I couldn't do this on my own. This event recycling would not be going as well as it is without volunteer hours put in by my co-workers in Environmental and a cross-section of people on base volunteering their time. I can't thank them enough."
In addition to plastic beverage bottles and cans, Summer Bash generated about 15 cubic yards of cardboard for recycling, she said.
Joni VanMeir, the 377th Force Support Squadron's director of Outdoor Recreation and organizer of Summer Bash for many years, said the portable recycling containers were a great addition.
"During Summer Bash 2010, people said they wanted recycling bins. This year, when people saw the containers, we heard a lot of good comments."
Master Sgt. Robert Foster, 58th Special Operations Wing environmental coordinator, has also used the portable recycling bins at unit events, including the wing's sports day in June. He estimated that the 58 SOW has diverted about 20 percent of waste material as captured recyclables.
For more information about the base's recycling program, contact the solid waste program manager at 853-2486 or ceanc.recycle@kirtland.af.mil. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
