Environment Protection at WRNMMC

WRNMMC closes the recycling loop by purchasing recovered materials. The federal green purchasing policy helps us find new ways to use environmentally-friendly products.

Our recycled features include:

• Park benches
• Playground surfaces
• Playground mats
• Trash cans
• Fences
• Office supplies, especially paper

Our staffs have many resources to purchase green products that are approved and encouraged by the federal government. We do extensive staff awareness and training on the positive impact of green resources and how to use them to order supplies and equipment.

Zero-Use of Mercury and PCBs.

Eliminating mercury and PCBs began over ten years ago. Materials containing mercury (Hg) were replaced with non-Hg materials such as thermometers, sphygmomanometers and dilators.

Today, Hg-containing materials have been entirely removed from service at this base and from the hazardous waste stream.

WRNMMC also eliminated all items containing PCBs including transformers and ballasts.

The elimination of mercury and PCBs has greatly reduced the risk to patient health and improved the environment.

Digital X-Ray

Our digital x-ray system revolutionizes our care of patients and eliminates hazardous waste. Digital x-ray imaging is faster and can be transmitted electronically over the internet to treatment centers, speeding up delivery of care and medicine.

It's value is added by the reduction of more than 400 gallons of hazardous waste a year.

We are working hard to eliminate invasive species, such as Japanese Knotwood and English Ivy, which are choking out native species.

We also replace trees that have been removed and then some. Montgomery County requires that for every cut tree, one must be planted. But WRNMMC plants even more trees, plants, and shrubbery. We research the types of plants that thrive best in the area.

By reducing invasive and increasing native species, WRNMMC is leaving an environmental legacy.

Housekeeping uses only bio-friendly cleaning products.

Though Maryland requires the treatment of storm water runoff, WRNMMC goes the extra mile. A wetland was created that not only provides treatment to the runoff, but also has created a safe haven for wildlife. Now wildlife and waterfowl thrive in an area that once contained few species.

• Fluorescent bulbs have been replaced with more efficient units that contain less mercury.
• Water conserving fixtures have been installed to reduce water use 30 to 50%.

• FAQ - How is the Galley going green?
• FAQ - Who can eat in the large and small dining rooms in the Galley?
• FAQ - Where should I park?
• FAQ - Where is the parking garage?
• FAQ - Where is the gym?