State Recognizes Week of September 17 - 23 as Pollution Prevention Week

TALLAHASSEE – To improve Florida’s natural and indoor environments, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is recognizing September 17-23, 2007, as Florida Pollution Prevention Week. Florida joins the nation to celebrate Pollution Prevention Week to promote awareness and environmental stewardship.

This year’s theme for Pollution Prevention Week is “Take the Next Step!” DEP is encouraging hospitals, businesses and residents to take the necessary steps to go beyond controlling pollution and prevent it by using “green” cleaning methods.

DEP invites the public to participate in the following events:

Northeast District

2007 Jacksonville Environmental Seminar

September 21, 2007, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
University of North Florida University Center
DEP’s Northeast District will sponsor a Pollution Prevention/Green Cleaning exhibit. The event will feature the City of Jacksonville's Environmental Quality Division, the St. John's River Water Management District, energy experts and community interest groups.

Central District

Green Cleaning Workshop

September 18, 2007, 8:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.
Hilton Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, Orlando
The Florida Pollution Prevention Program, in partnership with the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association, is sponsoring a green cleaning workshop. Speakers from the Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology, the Ashkin Group, Spartan Chemical, Dade Paper, the Four Seasons Hotel and Sierra Environmental Technologies will discuss green cleaning tips for hospitals, schools and hotels. The event is free and open to the public. To reserve a seat, contact laura.lassiter@dep.state.fl.us.

Let’s Lasso Pollution

September 22, 2007, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tractor Supply, 100 Ardice Road
Eustis, Florida
Live Radio Broadcast on WLBE 790 AM on “Living for a Greener Environment.” The broadcast will feature the Rubbish Wrangler, the Eco Enforcer and the Pollution Prevention Posse. For more information, call (352) 343-3776 ext. 1663.

Southwest District

Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County

September 17 – 21, 2007, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Anyone interested in Pollution Prevention can pick up pamphlets and information in the Hillsborough County EPC lobby.

Pollution Prevention: All Ages

September 17, 2007, 7:00 p.m.
Safety Harbor Public Library
101 Second Street North
Safety Harbor, Florida
Learn ways to keep our Earth beautiful and be entertained by stories, songs, puppets and giveaways.

Partners for Pollution Prevention Awards Ceremony

September 18, 2007, 3:00 p.m.
Pinellas County Courthouse
Board of County Commissioners Assembly Room, 5th floor
315 Court Street
Clearwater, Florida
This event will recognize the City of Largo facility for its continued commitment to reduce their operational waste stream.

Energy Efficiency Around the Home

September 21, 2007, 10:00 a.m.
13225 101st Street
Largo, Florida
Presentation to the Federation of Mobile Home Owners by Pinellas County Environmental Specialist Tammy Allen.

National Pollution Prevention Week in Pinellas County Libraries

September 17 - 21, 2007
Several libraries in Pinellas County will feature pollution prevention activities, materials and tips for their patrons. Check with your local library for details.

Southeast District

Evening on the Avenue

September 21, 2007
Downtown Lake Worth
DEP’s Southeast District will provide Pollution Prevention information at the event. Patrons may enjoy live music on the Cultural Plaza’s Mainstage, outdoor dining, arts and crafts and the many specialty boutiques and galleries.

South District

Boat Cleaning Seminar
Sept 21, 2007, 8:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Lee County Extension Office
This science-based seminar for boat cleaning companies, dock masters, marina operators, homeowners and government officials will focus on boat cleaning products and practices, and protecting water quality and health. It is presented by DEP Southwest District’s Clean Marina Program in partnership with Florida Sea Grant. To register for this free seminar, contact Pamela Abbott at (239) 461-7523.

The Florida Pollution Prevention Program is a voluntary, proactive practice that eliminates or reduces the generation of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants by making changes in the process before recycling, treatment or disposal. These changes increase efficiency in the use of raw materials, energy and water and conserves natural resources. Since 1990, Florida Pollution Prevention Program professionals have assisted more than 450 businesses and local governments in eliminating or reducing the generation of more than 2.4 million pounds of air toxics and 6.7 million pounds of hazardous waste.

For more information on the Florida Pollution Prevention Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/pollutionprevention.