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Whidbey Recycle Center Conducts Waste Characterization Study

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080425-29
Release Date: 4/25/2008 2:53:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Northwest

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- The Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island Recycle Center conducted a waste characterization study April 23, to determine how much material is being diverted from the waste stream.

This is the 18th year the recycle center has conducted this study, which is nicknamed "Dumpster Diving," with volunteers from Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU), Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 129, Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRC NW) and NAS Whidbey Island Public Works all contributing to the project.

"We don't want to pay for trash to leave the base and we'd rather they pay us for sorting it out and sending it off," said Paul Brewer, solid waste management director for NAS Whidbey Island and Naval Station Everett. "Last year, we earned more than $487,000 from sales of our trash."

Out of 2,745 total pounds of waste, 2,165 pounds were recycled, which is a 79 percent recycling rate. The Navy's goal is currently above 39 percent. Throughout the past 18 years, the recycle center has received about 90 awards for their efforts and proficiency through their waste management programs, including first place in 2007 for Keep America Beautiful Waste Reduction for a Government Agency.

To date, the program has saved the base approximately $20,000 by not hiring a private contractor for the study.

The six dumpsters surveyed were from different areas on NAS Whidbey Island and the results from each will determine where the recycle center will focus on training people about proper waste separation and management.

"It's a good thing and it really enlightens people on what's really happening," said Brewer. "Before they throw something in the dumpster, they're going to think more about recycling."

Brewer hopes when Sailors move on to their next commands, they will carry with them the ideals that they learned through this activity.

"We hope somebody will become a champion," said Brewer. "You have to have somebody who wants to do it. The first thing is education, which is the key. The second is simplicity, and the last is tangible for the Sailors, like more money going back into Morale, Welfare, and Recreation and people programs rather than paying for trash."

The largest contributor was CNATTU with about 50 personnel participating. Cmdr. Michael Price, CNATTU commanding officer, attributes his command's engagement to their recognition of the majesty in the surrounding area.

"This is a beautiful state and we want to try to keep it that way more than anything else, and I think all of them recognize the importance of helping the ecology," said Price. "It starts right here with us and they're just on the bandwagon. Those guys and gals are on fire; they love doing it. They have a lot of fun, so I think it's a really good thing."

The volunteers were happy to lend a hand and feel their efforts will improve the local environment.

"It's a good community service for everybody, especially the base community, helping out the Navy," said Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class (AW) Ronaldo Elepe, of FRC NW. "Recycling is everybody's part, not just one person. Everybody should be helping out. It's a good day to be out here contributing."

For more news from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, visit www.navy.mil/local/naswhidbey/.