TINKER AIR FORCE BASE TO BE RECOGNIZED AS HAVING ONE OF NATION'S MOSTEFFECTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS
A lead-based paint testing program at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., will be
recognized as one of the most effective environmental programs in the nation by
"Renew America," a consortium of 60 environmental groups.
Tinker AFB's program, along with 23 other environmental efforts, will be
honored during ceremonies at the Mayflower Hotel, Washington, D.C., Jan. 31,
1995, at 7 p.m. Actor and environmental enthusiast Christopher Reeve will
present the awards. A press conference for some of the award winners is
scheduled at the Mayflower on Jan. 31 at 10 a.m.
"When it comes to environmental achievement, Tinker's lead-based paint program
represents the very best our country has to offer," said Claudine Schneider,
"Renew America" chairperson. "Renew America" is the sponsor of the Fifth
Annual "Renew America" National Awards for Environmental Sustainability.
"Our national awards council, with local and state evaluators, selected the
winning programs based on their effectiveness at environmental protection,
social responsibility and economic progress," Schneider added.
The main thrust of Tinker AFB's on-going program is testing for lead-based
paint in all base facilities frequented by children under seven years of age.
The facilities include all of military family housing, the chapel, playground
equipment, day care centers and the youth center.
Tinker AFB instituted a lead poisoning and prevention awareness campaign among
base residents and employees. The campaign included personal contacts with
military family housing residents, and creation and distribution of a special
brochure highlighting the long-term effects of lead in children and steps that
can be taken to prevent lead poisoning.
In addition to Tinker AFB's lead-based paint testing program, "Renew America"
will highlight eight other environmental initiatives at the base in its
environmental success index. The index is a database that communities and
organizations can use to learn more about successful environmental programs.
Tinker AFB's eight other programs are its alternative fuels program, renewable
energy program, Environmental Protection Agency top 17 chemicals reduction
program, ozone depleting chemicals reduction program, solid waste management
program, asbestos program, Building 3001 Groundwater Treatment Plant and urban
greenway program.
For more information, contact Maj. Guy C. Thompson, Secretary of the Air Force
Office of Public Affairs, (703) 695-0640.
