Over 7 tons of cardboard recycled since last summer
Orange City Area Health System (OCAHS) made a commitment to bold, innovative environmental initiatives beginning in 2007, when a task force made up of employees from various departments and facilities was formed to brainstorm, propose, and implement new programs. The “Green Team” meets regularly to evaluate current programs, consider employee suggestions for new initiatives, and introduce opportunities including environmentally friendly products. In the past five years, health system employees, volunteers, patients, families, and the broader community have been reminded and encouraged to participate in system-wide programs including paper, cardboard, battery, electronics, and shoe recycling; paper and supplies reduction; and energy conservation. Cardboard recycling, in particular, has been a successful environmental program for the health system. Since 2011, over 7.5 tons of cardboard have been recycled, according to Mark Pottebaum, OCAHS Director of Plant Operations. “Since implementing cardboard recycling last August, $40 per month has been saved through reduced sanitation pickup services,” reports Pottebaum. The health system earned $230.40 for a full trailer at $60/ton in November 2011. Total savings to date is $350.40, which will equal about $1,050 annually. For more information about Orange City Area Health System’s “green” initiatives, visit ocHealthSystem.org/about/ocahs-is-going-green/.