EPA Recognizes California Leaders for Pollution Prevention Accomplishments
SAN FRANCISCO –– As part of Pollution Prevention Week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is celebrating two California organizations as part of its 2024 Regional Pollution Prevention (P2) Recognition Program. EPA is recognizing Zero Waste San Diego and Western Digital Technologies in Fremont for their commitments to pollution prevention by reducing, eliminating or preventing pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment or disposal. These two organizations reduced the equivalent of 1,357 metric tons of carbon dioxide in 2023, approximately equal to the emissions of 3.4 million miles driven by a gas-powered car.
“EPA is proud to recognize the accomplishments of these environmental leaders in California who are preventing pollution and making meaningful change in their communities,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Land, Chemicals, and Redevelopment Division Director Claire Trombadore. “These honorees are taking action to reduce pollution, advance environmental justice and address climate change.”
Zero Waste San Diego offers free “fixit” clinics that have brought the community and local tradespeople together to share skills and teach neighbors to repair broken electronics, appliances, clothes, and other household items. Since 2016, they have hosted over 100 clinics across 11 neighborhoods in San Diego County and built a dedicated and skilled volunteer team of 20 technicians and tradespeople, including many veterans. These clinics have since expanded into Los Angeles County, demonstrating the scalability and demand for a community repair framework other communities can adapt. The program has reduced 10,110 pounds of waste and repaired 340 items.
"Reuse and repair are essential components of a circular economy. Designing products for reuse and repair is the key component of pollution prevention. SD Fixit Clinic was created to provide accessible repair to all community members in San Diego County and encourage repair over purchasing new. The purpose is to have neighbors help neighbors find a solution, if possible, to repair it, and by educating the client on how to be a better consumer in the future and invest in items that can be repaired and not landfilled. Our goal is to empower all to have the courage to open an item and see if they can fix it." said Laura Anthony, Director of Zero Waste San Diego.
Western Digital Technologies in Fremont, a computer disk drive manufacturer, demonstrated strong leadership in pollution prevention through comprehensive internal policies, supplier engagement, community involvement, and employee participation. They adopted policies to minimize pollution by reducing emissions, conserving water, and minimizing waste. Their environmental management system adhered to the International Organization for Standardization’s Environmental Management System 14001 standards, and they conserved over 1.8 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy and 7.1 million gallons of water in 2023.
“At Western Digital, environmental stewardship is integral to our business. This EPA award recognizes our commitment to pollution prevention through innovative practices, resulting in significant energy and water savings.” said Xhavin Sinha, Principal Engineer at Western Digital Technologies. “We're proud to lead by example, demonstrating that sustainability and business success go hand in hand.”
In 2023, the eight recipients of EPA’s Pacific Southwest P2 recognition program across Arizona, California and Nevada reduced approximately:
- The equivalent of 1,443 metric tons of carbon dioxide.
- 1.98 million kWh of energy use.
- 11.28 million gallons of water use.
- $495,000 in business costs.
Background
P2, as defined in the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, is any practice that reduces environmental releases of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants prior to entering a waste stream for recycling, treatment or disposal. P2 conserves natural resources, including water and energy, by focusing industry, government and public attention on reducing pollution through the implementation of cost-effective changes in production, operation and the use of raw materials.
EPA’s P2 program is voluntary and encourages stakeholders to seek innovative ways to prevent pollution from entering waste streams through a competitive grant process and the provision of technical assistance to businesses.
Pollution Prevention Week is September 16-20, 2024, and helps people learn how to reduce or prevent pollution. This year’s theme is “Together We Are One Planet.”
The EPA Regional Pollution Prevention Recognition program is an annual, voluntary and non-monetary award program. Those interested in applying or nominating an organization to be considered for recognition will have an opportunity to apply next year through this program.
Learn more about EPA’s national Pollution Prevention program.
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