Big Blue goes green

ALTUS AFB, OK, UNITED STATES

05.06.2016

Story by Airman 1st Class Kirby Turbak 

97th Air Mobility Wing

But with the U.S. Air Force’s need for energy there is also a need to save and be smarter with it.
Saving that energy can start with each individual Airman. There are several ways to save energy and resources at work and home.
“Recycling is one of the easiest and influential ways for people to help the environment,” said Michael Reyes, 97th Civil Engineer Squadron installation environmental management coordinator. “Here on base we recycle paper, plastic and metal.”
Another way to be green is by reserving your resources. Leaving the lights on when you leave a room and letting the sink run while brushing your teeth are the biggest waste of resources the average family commits. Approximately 5 gallons of water is used while brushing your teeth when the water is left running.
During the month of May the base is promoting events to protect our environment like the “Go Green to Work” initiative where teams of four or more people compete for a grand prize by biking, carpooling or walking to work.
“It is important for every person to do their part,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Christian Mason, 97th Operation Support Squadron radar controller and “Go Green to Work” representative. “By just taking an extra moment to make a phone call to carpool or planning ahead just by a few minutes to ride your bike or walk to work can make a huge difference on your carbon footprint.”
The base is also encouraging the “Crush-It” campaign which is promoting crushing used water bottles and putting the cap back on so more bottles can be delivered and less trips are taken to the recycling center at Fort Sill, Okla.
“We try to encourage people to be aware of how they can be more energy efficient,” said Reyes. “Being more energy and material efficient not only helps the environment but can also save money.”
U.S. Air Force bases across the world are taking the initiative of going green by having recycling centers on base, using renewable energy like solar panels and saving fuel by using simulators. Taking small steps everyday such as turning off the lights and compacting your recyclables add up and make a big difference.
For more information about “Go Green to Work” contact U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Nathan Clark at [e-mail] and for information about “Crush-it” contact Mark Painter at [e-mail].

• Date Taken: 05.06.2016
• Date Posted: 05.06.2016 13:16
• Story ID: 197533
• Location: ALTUS AFB, OK, US