Earth: the only place to live in our solar system...so keep it clean!

  • Published
  • By By Airman 1st Class Kedesha Pennant
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  April 22 marks the observance of Earth Day and the Air Force has campaigned to take action with the theme, "Conserve Today, Secure Tomorrow" with a focus on sustainability.
 
There are several ways to keep Dyess and the Big Country clean not just for Earth day, but every day.

Conserve today:

· Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.

· When brushing your teeth, turn the water off until you need to rinse. It saves 25 gallons a month.

· Collect and preserve rain water from your roof to water plants during dry periods.

· Change or clean your air conditioner's filters at least one a month to keep your system running at peak performance.

· Avoid over-drying your clothes. Not only does it wastes energy, but can cause static and wrinkling.

· Set your thermostat switch to "auto" to save energy. Leaving it in the "on" position keeps air running constantly.

Secure tomorrow:

· Recycle trash when possible or dispose of trash in covered waste collection containers.

· Sweep and collect litter and debris from driveways for disposal instead of hosing down the storm drain.

· Pick up pet waste and dispose of it in the garbage.

Base residents are encouraged by the 7th Civil Engineer Squadron to reduce pollution by being active in discovering trash and properly disposing it.

"Be aware of your surroundings," said Brian Danko, 7th CES water program manager. "If there's trash lying around, don't wait for the next person to pick it up."

Dyess also offers an Adopt-a-Storm Drain program, which was created to educate the public about the effects of urban storm water pollution to local creeks and streams. Creeks and streams are primarily recharged by storm drains. Preventing litter and debris from entering storm drains preserves local waterways and improves the beauty of our community.

"Team Dyess can help the community by taking care of their adopted storm drain, so it doesn't pollute the waterways," Danko said.

Since the base doesn't have a recycling program, servicemembers and their families can drop off recyclable items at the Environmental Recycling Center located at 2209 Oak Street, where they offer a product exchange program as well.

"Keep Dyess clean by practicing these and other tips to make them into great habits," Danko said. "We owe it to ourselves and our installation."