RICHLAND, Wash. – Kadlec Regional Medical Center has made a significant step towards reducing its hazardous waste, according to a release by the Department of Ecology (Ecology).
Ecology said the medical center switched to a non-toxic alternative for soda lime products used in anesthesia, which has led to a substantial decrease in hazardous waste production.
Toxics reduction specialist Maryflor Garcia identified that soda lime byproducts accounted for over 90% of the center’s hazardous waste.
Garcia emphasized the importance of finding safer alternatives, saying, “Facilities are mostly focused on operations and compliance with the law. My job is to help find ways they can reduce or eliminate hazardous waste.”
The switch has not only improved safety for employees but also saved Kadlec around $2,400 annually in disposal costs.
The change reduced an average of 2,954 pounds of hazardous waste.
“The reduction in hazardous waste benefits Kadlec financially,” Garcia said. “It’s also better for the environment and creates a safer environment for employees.”
Ecology said its pollution prevention services offer non-enforcement technical assistance to Washington businesses. They help reduce dangerous waste, conserve resources, and improve efficiency.
For more information, businesses can contact Ecology for assistance.
