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EPA Signs Agreement with Southampton Hospital to Enhance its Environmental Practices

Release Date: 11/15/2010
Contact Information: Jim Fallon (212) 637-5034, fallon.james@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y.) Long Island’s Southampton Hospital has entered into an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enhance the hospital’s environmental practices. The hospital has pledged to eliminate mercury, reduce and recycle solid waste, conserve energy and water, and establish policies for purchasing green products.

“Doctors take an oath ‘to do no harm’ and Southampton Hospital is extending that commitment to protecting people from environmental harm,” said Regional Administrator Judith Enck. “By reducing waste, preventing pollution and buying more sustainable products, they are creating a healthier world for everyone.”

Under the agreement between Southampton Hospital and EPA, the hospital will:

• Reduce and eliminate mercury and other toxic substances throughout its facility.
• Join EPA’s WasteWise program, which provides technical assistance in developing waste reduction and recycling plans. A cardboard compactor will be purchased and installed at the loading dock so cardboard packaging can be recycled. The hospital estimates that it will recycle 10 tons of cardboard each year.
• Join the EPA ENERGY STAR Program and set a goal of reducing energy use by10%.
• Use water-saving WaterSense products in the renovation and upgrading of existing buildings and in new buildings. This will reduce water usage and the associated energy needs. An average WaterSense plumbing fixture saves 13,000 gallons each year.
• Use materials with recycled content for construction wherever possible.