Improving base operations one plastic bottle at a time

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Officials from Osan's Environmental Program Office have seen an upward trend in recyclables being improperly disposed of in the dormitories and housing areas.

Each month the base spends approximately $50,000 to remove nearly 600 tons of waste, and about 30 tons of that is recyclable material that has been mixed within the trash.

When the waste is collected, the contractor separates items deemed as non-recyclable and recyclable because the Korean government has heavy fines for dumping recyclables in a landfill.

Each month that 30 tons of recyclable material gets turned in by the contractor to an off-base recycling center. The contractor collects the money, which equates to a possible $5,000 that could have been returned to the base.

These recyclable items generate additional revenue for the contractor, said Sonzkun Kwan, Solid Waste and Recycling program manager. This is money that could be funneled back into the base for programs, events and base-wide projects, which still need funding.

Throughout base living areas the environmental office staff has provided green recycling bins, as well as individual bins for the interior of the dorms, Kwan said. Unfortunately these bins are not being utilized for their intended purpose, but more as extra waste bins.

Additionally, when using these bins everyone must enclose all recyclables in a clear bag. This allows the contractors to see the contents because without it they are unable to collect the recyclables.

"We have the resources out there for individuals to recycle," said David Moysey, SWR assistant program manager. "Since there was no set standard for recycling in the past we are trying to inform and train individuals as we go forth."

Along with the bins provided in residential areas the base also offers a self-service area located at Bldg. 838, which has proper disposal for scrap metal, ink cartridges and non-government E-waste such as televisions, stereos or any item with an on/off switch. Florescent bulbs, which are classified as hazardous waste should be returned to Hazardous Waste in Bldg. 833.

"Little steps make a big difference," Kwan said. "Everyone can come up with their own concepts on how to recycle. Even one family can make a big difference in starting a trend."