bch/aboutbch/ environmentalprograms.cfm

www.bch.org/aboutbch/environmentalprograms.cfm

Boulder Community Hospital

Kai Abelkis, Recycling Coordinatorkabelkis@bch.org

(303) 440-2265

“We at Boulder Community Hospital recognize that

sustaining a healthy environment is essential to maintaining both

personal and public health.”

13,200,000 pounds of waste per day.

According to Hospitals for a Healthy Environment.

75% to 90% of waste produced by health care providers is non-risk or general.

World Health Organization

Boulder Community Hospital’s initial recycling program consisted of:

Office PaperNewspapersCardboardCommingled Containers

In 2001, Boulder Community Hospital Recycled over 60 tons of cardboard

People – the KEY to a successful Program

An Environmental Coordinator is the key to a successful Comprehensive Waste

Reduction Program

Boulder Community Hospital’s Green Team

“We support and encourage recycling of materials used within the hospital.”

-- Principles of Environmental and Recycling efforts

Design of a waste reduction should include:

ParametersClear understanding of the programCreation of the collection infrastructureExpansion of responsibilitiesReliable service providerEducation

Placement of Recycling ContainersMail RoomKitchenCopy CentersAdmin ClosetsCommunity SpaceLab

Desk side Containers

Expanded to Waiting Rooms, Employee Lounges, & Satellite Facilities

Reduced workload for EVS Department

In 2001, Boulder Community Hospital Recycled over 127 tons

New Employee Orientation

Boulder Community Hospital’s waste reduction program saves over $30,000 a year

Ongoing Communication Weekly Newsletter

Employees overwhelmingly appreciate BCH’s Environmental Impact Program

BCH recycles computers, televisions, and books.

Expanded our waste reduction program to include:

LaundryX-raysBatteriesPacking PeanutsFluorescent lampsUsed Medical Equipment shipped and distributed as part of our Mante, Mexico Mission

Expanded our waste reduction program to include:

LandscapingPaperboardTyvek EnvelopesReusable diapers in our Mom/Baby wardDistributed used furniture to BCH employees

Food Service waste reduction efforts

Compost programReusable dinnerwareCharge extra for disposable containers

Food Service waste reduction effortsRecycle containersRecycle CardboardDiscount on beverage with reusable container

Waste Reduction Efforts

Currently addressing

Environmental impact of product selectionEliminate third class mail

Construction and Demolition includes waste reduction program

Cardboard Wood Metals

Manufacturer take-back programKodakTyvekInk jetsPrinter CartridgesLeasing Computers and Copiers

Ask your supplier for products with recycled content.

“We purchase products, which contain recycled materials, are recyclable or reusable, and cause the least environmental harm during manufacturing, use and disposal”