Governor Recognizes Columbus's 121st Air Refueling Wing for Outstanding Pollution Prevention Efforts

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(Columbus, 10/27/99) Governor Bob Taft today presented awards for Outstanding Achievement in Pollution Prevention to the 121st Air Refueling Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard based in Columbus.

"The 121st Air Refueling Wing have demonstrated how pollution prevention provides a common sense approach to protecting Ohio's environment by saving companies money and protecting Ohio's natural resources for future generations," said Governor Taft. "I commend them for their achievements."

The 121st Air Refueling Wing, Ohio Air National Guard, is recognized for:

• eliminating ozone-depleting chemicals purchases;

• minimizing the use of toxic chemicals;

• reducing the amount of hazardous waste generated from 108,603 pounds to 10,064 pounds in 1998; and

• recycling more than 346,000 pounds in 1998, up from less than 20,000 pounds in 1993.

The Governor's Awards have been coordinated by Ohio EPA for 13 years to demonstrate how pollution prevention can be good for both the environment and business.

Criteria for selection of the Governor's Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Pollution Prevention include: the overall effort to reduce waste at the source, or recycle or recover materials; the program's innovation, cost effectiveness, and environmental benefits; ability of the program to serve as a model for others; and effectiveness in promoting prevention as the preferred long-term approach. In addition, the efforts should be voluntary and in advance of regulatory requirements, and the nominee should have a good environmental compliance record.