Military members, organizations work together to protect the environment Published Aug. 18, 2008 By Senior Airman Kelly LeGuillon 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- In an effort to be good stewards of the environment, the KMC along with AAFES are taking action to protect the environment. "Our goal is to stop actions that negatively impact the environment," said Dr. Joern Jeblick, KMC Natural Resources Manager. According to Dr. Jeblick, the biggest challenge the KMC faces is new construction projects. Each new project constructed is done with the intention of having the smallest impact on the environment possible, which can present some difficulties depending on the location. Another way to ensure minimum impact on the environment is to properly handle hazardous materials. "The purpose of the hazardous material program is to eliminate dangerous chemicals in order to protect the environment and the community," said Thomas Weber, KMC Environmental Protection Specialist. The program was established in the mid 1990s and includes spill prevention training, elimination of stock piling hazardous materials, controlling hazardous materials and ensuring each organization has a hazardous waste program. "The program is working very well due to the efforts of the community and (military) organizations, not just the civil engineers," Mr. Weber said. "It is a team effort and people really understand the importance of the program." This team effort also involves AAFES. AAFES is currently undergoing the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Retail Pilot Program. It is the most widely accepted sustainable design rating system. It looks at six major areas including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality and innovation in design. "We are reducing waste, by recycling more," said Lt. Col. David Konop, AAFES Public Affairs officer. "We are adding more reusable products. For example, the AAFES Green Bag for shopping. This not only decreases waste but decreases the need to recycle as well. Additionally we now have an Earth Friendly Section in our on line catalog and have also partnered with Energy Star." "There is always room for improvement when it comes to protecting the environment," said Dr. Jeblick Some of Dr. Jeblick's environmentally friendly suggestions for KMC members include "avoiding disrupting animal's habitats, recycling, using your car minimally and buying energy conserving products." With support from organizations and members of the KMC, protecting the environment is a team effort.