Earth Day: Aviano AB focuses on recycling, energy saving

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. R.J. Biermann
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Aviano Air Base is encouraging its members to promote recycling and energy saving to celebrate the 45th Earth Day anniversary April 22.

Established by Senator Gaylord Nelson, and first observed in 1970, Earth Day provides an opportunity for every Airman to understand their role in preserving natural resources for future generations. On this day, the Air Force is focusing on this year's theme - "Conserve Today - Secure Tomorrow."

"Aviano Air Base is different from many other bases, because there is no on-base family housing," said Giovanna Coppola, 31st Civil Engineer Squadron Community Recycling liaison. "The majority of Team Aviano members live within the neighboring communities so it's important that they follow their community recycling guidelines."

In Italy, recycling is required by law and not complying with these laws may result in fines. Dormitory residents are only authorized to dispose of personal trash on base. Bringing personal trash on base to be disposed of is illegal.

"Keeping abreast of recycling trends and opportunities help Aviano's recycling program improve the refuse separation collection on- and off-base, helps save money and preserve the environment," Coppola said.

Such opportunities include the annual Ecological Days initiative. This year, 155 Team Aviano members collected more than 2,000 kg/4,409 lbs. of trash throughout Roveredo, San Quirino and Fontanafredda.

To introduce energy saving measures and better educate Team Aviano on energy saving practices, the 31 CES created an energy team. The result of this team's holistic work saves the base nearly $550,000 per year.  

The team's many initiatives include installation of a geothermal system at the Dragon Fitness Center and a similar system at the La Bella Vista Club. Both produce energy for heating and cooling. Additionally, nine facilities use solar panels to heat sanitary water, and soon seven will utilize photovoltaic panels to produce energy.

"These changes allow us to produce more than 3.5% of the entire base energy consumption, saving us more than $900,000 annually," said Riccardo Antonini, 31st CES energy manager. "We want to encourage everyone to see themselves in the bigger picture of preserving our natural resources."

As Earth Day is celebrated, remember each individual's voice is important. If you see energy being wasted or conserved, let someone know.

For more information about recycling, call 632-2511 or visit http://www.aviano.af.mil/library/recycling.asp. For more information on the Air Force's Earth Day efforts, visit http://www.afcec.af.mil/news/earthday or http://www.facebook.com/blueactsofgreen.