Hanscom participates in Federal Green Challenge Published March 14, 2012 By Mark Wyatt 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Last October, the Environmental Protection Agency and General Services Administration began its 2012 Federal Green Challenge for agencies in the federal government. Hanscom decided to participate in the challenge in two target areas: waste and energy. The voluntary campaign is a national initiative that challenges federal agencies nationwide to lead by example in reducing the federal government's environmental impact. Since the FGC began three years ago as a result of President Barack Obama's Executive Order No.13514, "Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy and Economic Performance," 52 federal agencies have saved $2 million in energy and utility costs and prevented 900 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. Federal facilities begin their participation by selecting a minimum two of the six target areas. FGC participating agencies will establish environmental baselines and reduction goals in the areas of waste, electronics or purchasing, with additional optional areas of water, energy and transportation. "We have an obligation to the taxpayers of today and tomorrow," said Bob Zarnetske, regional administrator of GSA's Region 1 office in Boston. "By working to ensure federal buildings are as efficient as possible, we're saving money and promoting a healthier environment for ourselves and our children." Hanscom selected waste and energy as its target areas for several reasons. "Hanscom has a strong composting and energy program," said Don Morris, 66th Civil Engineer Division asset manager. "Selecting waste and energy as our target areas was something we were confident in." "For the first time in years, the material yard is completely organized and efficient," continued Morris. "As a result, we established a ten percent increase in the amount of tons we will compost this target year." In addition, significant improvements to the central heat plant will allow the base to compete very well in reducing fuel oil consumption. A 25 percent reduction in energy this year is goal. "The central heat plant uses two types of fuel, number six oil and natural gas," said Morris. "The goal is to use less oil and more clean natural gas." The benefits from the FGC extend well beyond costs savings this year. "We get to share information with our federal counterparts and learn from them," continued Morris. "As a result, we have more resources available to accomplish the mission." At the end of the fiscal year, participants submit their environmental results and earn the opportunity to enter the FGC's competitive award and recognition program. For more information on Hanscom's involvement in the Federal Green Challenge, contact Don Morris at 781-225-6142.