Colorado US Air Force Base now collecting Empties

Together, reducing, reusing, recycling and buying repurposed products make up a comprehensive waste and resource reduction strategy that benefits our natural world and economy.As the largest user of energy in the federal government the Air Force is leading the way in advocating for conservation and green initiatives.

Locally, as part of the AF goal to reduce its carbon footprint Schriever has stepped up its recycling efforts by providing recycling bins in various locations around base to encourage others to participate in the waste and resource reduction strategy.

The 50th Civil Engineering Environmental office is offering Rubbermaid containers for work centers from: Eight gallon desk side recycle containers to 50 and 95 gallon containers with wheels. Also available is a can crusher with container that can hold 300-400 cans.

Co-mingled or single-stream recycling bins will accept cardboard, metal cans, paper and plastics. Please ensure food debris is removed before placing any material in the recycling container. Never place batteries, fluorescent lamps or bulbs in any recycle or refuse container; these items can be turned in to Doug Chase, 50 CES Environmental Office.

"Schriever’s FY11 goal for solid waste disposal and recycling/reuse was 50 percent; sadly the actual amount recycled or reused was well below the goal, coming in at 32.4 percent. The biggest road block to meet this goal is awareness," said Chase.

Last week, new recycling and refuse signs were placed on all dumpsters across base to address any confusion regarding which bins are for recycling. Smaller signs for indoor recycling and refuse containers will soon follow.

Last month, new roll-top containers for recycling toner and inkjet cartridges were placed among the recycling and refuse dumpsters located at Buildings 210 (west end), 300 (east end), 400 (south side) and 720 (southeast corner). Only toner and inkjet cartridges shall be discarded in the roll-top collection bins; any associated cardboard or paper shall be put in a comingled recycling container. For this waste reduction opportunity, personnel can also turn in toner or inkjet cartridges from home.