Pollution Prevention Success Stories
Dramatic Cuts of Water Use in Harvard Chemistry Labs
Over 1992 and 1993, the chemistry labs installed a central air vacuum system to replace traditional running water vacuums. Alan Long,manager of the chemistry laboratories, also replaced pumps cooled by non-recycling water with pumps cooled by recycling oil or air. These two alterations combined with fixing the leaking water pipes cut water use in the chemistry labs by a factor of 8!
Mercury Thermometer Replacement Program
Over 1998, over 70% of mercury thermometers were replaced with "green" or ethanol thermometers through a voluntary program. Harvard University had a partnership with VWR in which Harvard bought the new safer thermometers from VWR, and in exchange, VWR paid for the proper disposal of the mercury-containing thermometers.
Toxic Substance Substitution of Chrome Sulfuric Acid
Detergents have replaced all use of chrome sulfuric acid at Harvard University. This chemical, a known carcinogen, was being used in laboratories and kitchens as a cleaning agent. Although it was carefully managed to protect human health, it was harmful to the environment after it was disposed of.
Harvard Recycles
In 1989, Harvard recycled approximately 1% of their trash, by 1997, Harvard recycled 24% of their trash!
Anheuser-Busch Saves Money through Recycling
Since Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. joined the EPA's Waste-wise program in 1991, they have saved over $13 million by reducing their solid waste. A significant part of this reduction is due to extensive composting. For example, in 1998, when the company saved $2.5 million, they composted 300,000 tons of organic material.
Leftover Money Goes to Safety Equipment
At Tufts University, an innovative fund was created to which researchers could donate their extra grant money, and safety equipment would be purchased for the laboratories. Because researchers often lose their grant money if they do not spend it, this fund provided an alternative to stocking up on chemicals with the leftover money. Everyone wins!
