Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook. A program designed to protect and enhance our environment by sound practical actions.

Transcription

1 Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook A program designed to protect and enhance our environment by sound practical actions.

2 Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Objective This project is designed to initiate and maintain a Pollution Prevention (P2) Program that is easily accessible to organizations within the State of Wyoming. The Pollution Prevention Program is designed to show a measureable level of effect and positively impact the environment and reduce the long-term costs of doing business. WP3 Mission Statement The mission of WP3 is to develop, implement, monitor, and sustain actionable pollution prevention (P2) behaviors to protect, conserve, and enhance the quality of Wyoming s environment for the benefit of current and future generations.

3 DISCLAIMER This information provides the Department's suggestions and perspective on how a P2 Plan can be compiled to address regulatory requirements as they pertain to VRP eligibility. However, these suggestions should not be interpreted by persons or Department staff as mandatory content for a P2 Plan. This information is not meant to modify or replace adopted regulations and statutes. In the event of a conflict between this information and adopted regulations or statute, regulations or statutes prevail. Under no circumstances should this program replace or be seen as a requirement to be eligible with requirements set forth by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality Voluntary Remediation Program for Pollution Prevention (P2) plans. This program shares no direct link with the Voluntary Remediation Program. Following the guidance of this program does not in any way guarantee acceptance into the Voluntary Remediation Program. For information regarding the Voluntary Remediation Program please contact the program administration for P2: Cindi Martinez You may also create and file a P2 plan that will meet the requirements for VRP if you wish. The requirements for the VRP P2 plans can be found at the website below: WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 3

4 Handbook Edition 1.0 September 2012 We would like to the thank Jill Turner and The State of New Mexico for their outstanding contributions to the WP3 program. We would also like to thank the United States Environmental Protection Agency Region VIII. Without our partners this program would not be possible. Program Contact Landon Brown Pollution Prevention Program Coordinator 122 W. 25th Street Herschler 4W, Cheyenne, WY (307) TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTIONS 1.0 Program Description & Purpose 1.1 Participation Level Descriptions WP3 Acceptance Policy & Timeliness 1.3 Member Recognition and Benefits Areas of Environmental Achievement 1.5 Program Terms & Definitions Environmental Planning & Tracking Eligibility Requirements 2.1 Program Membership Retention and Renewal Leadership Level Requirements 4.0 Membership Review & Award Process Appendices A Environmental Statements B Environmental Service Project Examples C Annual / Final Report Requirements D Mock P2 / EP Plan II III V VI

5 This purpose of this document is to provide a point of reference for the State of Wyoming s Pollution Prevention Program. This book summarizes program eligibility practices. This book is a working document and can be updated at the discretion of the WP3 Coordinator. The book shall be made available at the State of Wyoming s Department of Environmental Quality Outreach Office as well as online at Program Description & Purpose The Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program (WP3) is a statewide environmental leadership program, administered by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. WP3 is designed to aid and assist all sizes of organizations who show a commitment and high-level of interest in the sustainability of Wyoming s environment. The program is designed to recognize those who voluntarily participate in achieving pollution prevention programs. 4 Levels of Recognition Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze 2 Sizes of Business Small/Medium Business(>50 Employees) Large Business(<50 Employees) This project is designed to implement and maintain a Pollution Prevention (P2) Program that is easily accessible to businesses within the State of Wyoming. The Pollution Prevention program is designed to positively impact the environment and reduce the long-term costs of doing business. With the initiation of a P2 program, together we can reach an overall reduction in energy use and water use, air pollutants, water contamination, hazardous waste generation and an overall increase in the environmental health. Using the concept that waste is the result of poor planning and inefficiency, we can assist and build models that reduce or eliminate waste. WP3 is a VOLUNTARY program that: Supports and assists all Wyoming businesses in achieving environmental responsibility through continuous improvement and environmental management. Encourages integration of environmental stewardship into business operations and management practices through the establishment of a prevention-based system. Emphasizes the establishment of a system that provides a framework for continuous environmental improvement that will assure and assist in regulatory compliance and reduce or eliminate pollution. WP3 Welcomes ALL types of Wyoming Organizations: Large (>50 employees) and small (<50 employees) organizations. Any type of business or organization regardless of size or type (government, industry, offices, retail, etc.) State or Federal government agencies; local governments Non-Profits and other organizations WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 1

6 1.1 Participation Level Descriptions Participants may attain status levels by demonstrating the environmental commitments listed below: Status Levels Environmental Commitments PLATINUM STATUS Provide proof of environmental improvements in at least 4 areas within the past 12 months Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods. Demonstration of Environmental Best Management Practices (BMP) and relation to Standard Operating Procedures Describe employee education strategy relating to environmental goals Provide Business Environmental Statement and P2 plan or EMS plan if applicable* Set at least 4 environmental improvement goals for following year(s) GOLD STATUS Provide proof of environmental improvements in at least 3 areas within the past 12 months Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods. Demonstration of Environmental Best Management Practices (BMP) are being used Set goal(s) to provide employee education and engagement in WP3 Provide Business Environmental Statement and P2 plan or EMS plan if applicable* Set at least 3 environmental improvement goals for following year(s) SILVER STATUS Provide proof of environmental improvements in at least 2 areas within the past 12 months Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods. Demonstration of Environmental Best Management Practices (BMP) are being used Set goal(s) to provide employee education and engagement in WP3 Set goals to implement Business Environmental Statement and P2 plan or EMS plan if applicable* Set at least 2 environmental improvement goals for following year(s) BRONZE STATUS Provide proof of environmental improvements in at least 2 areas within the past 12 months Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods. Set at least 2 environmental improvement goals for following year(s) WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 2

7 1.2 WP3 Acceptance Policy & Timelines Eligibility Requirements Acceptance into the program is based on multiple factors which include compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and statutes. A pollution prevention plan must be filed with the WDEQ WP3 Coordinator prior to December 31 of previous year to be considered for program eligibility. Reward and Recognition Timeline The WP3 coordinator shall review all P2 plans and finalize recognitions and awards no later than the end of the 1st calendar quarter of the following year. Invitation to WP3 program awards ceremony shall take place within the first 2 calendar quarters of following year of participation. 1.3 Member Recognition & Benefits WP3 participants are recognized entities that inspire and challenge other organizations to higher levels of environmental performance. The substantial, voluntary commitments members will make with respect to the environmental protection are highly valuable to the State of Wyoming and its natural beauty. In recognition of our Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum status members we offer the following benefits: Use of the WP3 logo and mission statement in all advertising and marketing materials for the duration of participation in WP3 Organization name recognized publicly on Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality WP3 Website WDEQ press release announcing all members and membership levels WP3 window sticker Recognition plaque Guidance and assistance to reach desired level of membership Additional awards and recognition may be provided determined upon status qualification. All P2 plans must be submitted no later than December 31 of the previous year to the following address to be considered for participation in WP3 Program Contact Landon Brown Pollution Prevention Program Coordinator 122 W. 25th Street Herschler 4W, Cheyenne, WY (307) Landon.Brown@wyo.gov WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 3

8 1.4 Areas of Environmental Achievement The WP3 provides a foundational program that reduces pollution in all media. The WP3 is designed to assist all organizations to reach levels of environmental practices so as to keep the State of Wyoming beautiful and protect our natural resources. We will provide encouragement, assistance, and recognition to all participants who are able to demonstrate environmental improvements and commitments to additional goals. WP3 Participants are asked to report environmental results and set environmental goals in two to five of the following areas depending on their desired recognition level. Waste Streams & Resources Air Emissions Reduction Product Use Reduction Energy Use Reduction Solid Waste Reduction Green Purchasing Water Quality Improvement Hazardous Waste Reduction Water Use Reduction Recycling The WP3 program believes that recycling should be a standard practice. It s something that every organization, no matter the type or size, can and should be doing at some level. We ask that all WP3 members demonstrate their recycling efforts. Recycling efforts can be as minimal as using the same drinking glass instead of disposable cups or as complex as in-house processes of reuse of wasted materials. A simple way to start the process is look at the waste generated at this point from your facility and evaluate your options to either 1.Reduce 2. Reuse or 3. Recycle. Participants are encouraged to focus on reducing product use and avoiding waste altogether. Together we can enhance and sustain our beautiful state. Recycling is easy to do and by reducing waste, an organization can increase both productivity and profits. WP3 members are also encouraged to use their environmental leadership within their communities to improve environmental awareness and expand environmental improvements beyond their organization. This can be done by participating in a number of outreach or environmental service projects. These projects are required for Platinum Level members but all members are encouraged to participate. Environmental Service Projects Environmental Education, Outreach, or Community Environmental Events Local Environmental Service Projects Mentoring another Organization Land use improvement projects on or off your facilities sites (e.g. promoting reuse of brownfields vs greenfields) WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 4

9 1.5 Program Terms & Definitions Below are the terms and definitions used frequently in WP3 and other P2 programs. For more information, see the WP3 Handbook Appendices and the website links below. Best Management Practices (BMPs): Methods determined to be the most effective and practical means of preventing or reducing pollution. BMPs apply a range of actions from simple process changes to upgrading technologies in order to achieve and maintain a high level of environmental performance. Internet searches can result in numerous specific BMPs for most any organization, industry, or process. A few examples can be found on the WDEQ P2 Program website as well as: The U.S. Small Business Administration: The Small Business Assistance web resources site: PDCA: A Plan-Do-Check-Act system used to develop, achieve, review, maintain, and continuously improve Environmental Plans or Environmental Management Systems. Environmental Management System (EMS): A set of processes and practices that enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency. It provides a framework that helps an organization achieve its environmental goals through consistent control of its operations. For more information see WP3 Handbook section 1.6 and the EPA website: Environmental Plan (EP): A framework (or structure) for action and for setting environmental goals, objectives and outcomes. Sometimes also referred to as an Environmental Management Plan but NOT the same as an EMS. For more information see WP3 Handbook section 1.6 and the EPA website: Environmental Statement: A statement of an organization s intentions and principles in relation to its overall environmental performance. Sometimes also referred to as an environmental / sustainability policy statement or Environmental / sustainability mission statement. (See Appendix A for more guidance) Pollution: the contamination of air, soil, or water by the discharge of harmful substances. Pollution Prevention (P2): The reduction or elimination of pollution at the source (source reduction) by targeting the processes which generate waste. Pollution prevention occurs when raw materials, water, energy and other resources are utilized more efficiently, when less harmful substances are substituted for hazardous ones, and when toxic substances are eliminated from the production process. By reducing the use and production of hazardous substances, and by operating more efficiently we protect human health, strengthen our economic well-being, and preserve the environment. Water conservation, energy conservation, waste management, best management practices are all forms of pollution prevention. Recycling: Processing used materials (waste) into new products to: 1) prevent waste of potentially useful materials, 2) reduce the consumption of raw materials, 3) reduce energy usage, 3)reduce air pollution from incineration and water pollution from landfilling by reducing the need for conventional waste disposal, and 4) lower greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling is a key component of modern waste reduction and is the third component of the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle waste. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): A set procedure used to carry out a specific activity or operation. It usually includes a step-by-step breakdown of how and when a task is performed on a day to day basis. SOPs are usually written and filed or posted in an accessible location. Sustainability: Everything that we need for our long-term survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. Sustainability creates and maintains the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony, that permit fulfilling the social, economic and other requirements of present and future generations. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 5

10 1.6 Environmental Planning & Tracking The key to a successful sustainability program and effective environmental improvements at any organization is thoughtful planning and tracking. This can be achieved in any type and size of organization. Larger industrial manufacturing organizations may use a certified ISO Environmental Management System. A small service sector organization may use a simple Environmental Plan. An organization just beginning their environmental improvement process may not have a full plan, but can have a set of basic goals and objectives. No matter what your sector and where you are in the environmental commitment process, planning and tracking is essential. The Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program is designed to not only recognize organizations for their environmental commitments, but to also encourage and guide members to make continued improvements from any leadership status. As members, the different levels will work to: Identify and track waste streams while setting improvement goals (Bronze) Identify environmental aspects, set improvement goals, and develop an EP or EMS (Silver) Identify areas for additional improvements and set continuing improvement goals (Gold) Mentor an additional company in developing a P2 plan by assisting in developing an EP or EMS (Platinum) In order to prevent pollution, organizations have to look closely at day-to-day activities to see what pollution they are causing, or might be causing. Natural resource uses should also be evaluated to see how they can be used more efficiently. Developing an EP or EMS is a formalized way of doing this. Basic components of environmental planning systems such as an EP or EMS include: Reviewing your organization s environmental goals Analyzing its environmental impacts and legal requirements Setting environmental objectives and targets to reduce environmental impacts and comply with legal requirements Establishing programs to meet these objectives and targets Monitoring and measuring progress in achieving the objective Ensuring employees environmental awareness and competence Reviewing progress of the EMS and making improvements PDAC Cycle Environmental Frameworks make environmental management easier and more natural for everyone involved. Plans let employees and in some cases customers or vendors know what s expected of them and they provide a framework to ensure your organization is in compliance with any applicable environmental regulations. They also allow you to more easily recognize opportunities for improvement and cost savings. Some of the tools used to develop and maintain Environmental Frameworks include Process Flow Diagrams, Aspect / Impact Analysis, and integration of the PDAC cycle. Environmental Aspects and Impacts need to be identified in order for any organization to create and maintain a successful sustainability program and to achieve substantial environmental improvement goals. An Environmental Aspect is a feature or characteristic of a facility s activities, products, or services that can or does interact with the environment. These interactions and their effects may be continuous in nature, periodic, or associated only with events, such as emergencies. An Environmental Impact is any change to the environment whether negative or beneficial, resulting from a facility s activities, products, or services. Environmental aspects can have a direct and decisive impact on the environment or contribute only partially or indirectly to a larger environmental change. A Significant Aspect is one that may produce a significant environmental impact. The Aspect can be seen as the cause and the Impact as the effect. For example: Environmental Aspect = Factory Emissions Environmental Aspect = Using less electricity Environmental Impact = Air Pollution, smog. Environmental Impact = Natural resource conservation WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 6

11 Planning and Tracking Continued TRACKING Metrics are an integral component of the WP3. They are a demonstration of how an organization tracks it s waste streams and resource uses. Collection of metrics is a required part of WP3 membership. Participants will be required to chart their environmental footprint by identifying key environmental metrics and track progress over time. The goal is to demonstrate what you ve reduced and how you ve reduced it. A sample tracking sheet can be found on the WP3 website for use and assistance in reporting to the WP3 Program. When reporting metrics for the WP3, please use a variety of methods to communicate information including, text explanations, tables, charts, and graphs (such as the examples below). Add Additional Resources for Environmental Planning & Tracking EPA Pollution Prevention ( EPA EMS Information ( ISO Assistance ( Mock P2 Plan Appendix D WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 7

12 2.0 Eligibility Requirements In order to participate in the Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program, an organization must meet three main sets of requirements. I. Basic environmental compliance (permitted or general) II. Basic environmental and sustainability achievements III. Requirements specific to WP3 levels I Permit Compliance Organizations that operate in Wyoming and hold municipal, county, state, or federal environmental permits must be in full compliance with those permits prior to and at the time of application and throughout their membership term with WP3. Compliance requirements for each partnership level are listed in the table below. *Please note, this is not a compliance awards program. Requirements Bronze Silver Gold Platinum No serious violations (as evidenced by a notice of violation, compliance order, or other enforcement instruments) of applicable local, state, tribal, or federal environmental laws, regulations or permits, for the specified period of time prior to the application submittal. 1 Year 1 Year 3 Years 5 years No serious violations between the time the forms are submitted and recognition is granted. X X X X No criminal convictions, or out-of-court settlements of criminal charges, under any local, state, tribal, or federal environmental laws for the specified period of time prior to application submittal. 2 Years 2 Years 3 Years An applicant may also be denied recognition if the Department determines the applicant has shown a pattern of regulatory or permit violations, criminal convictions, or recalcitrance in addressing compliance issues that indicates a lack of commitment to environmental stewardship. 5 Years II Basic Environmental and Sustainability Achievements Recycling (ALL Applicants): For the purposes of this program, we are assuming that you already incorporate some level of recycling into all or a portion of your operations. All applicants will be required to demonstrate their recycling efforts in the membership. Environmental Statement (Gold and Platinum Status): All Silver and Gold Level members will be required to have an environmental statement as defined by the WP3 in the Definitions section of this handbook. (See Appendix A for more guidance) Senior Management Commitment (ALL Status): In order for any environmental program within an organization to be successful, there must be commitment from the organization s senior management. The Senior Management Commitment Form must be submitted by all members. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 8

13 III Program Level Requirements Members must be able to demonstrate the following environmental improvements and commitments made to be considered for recognition. To be re-considered for additional years of membership and recognition to the WP3 program, organizations must commit to self-selected goals that promote Pollution Prevention and a sustained healthy environment. See the level-specific sections of the Handbook for more detailed information. Minimum Requirements Bronze Silver Gold (Sm/Lg) Platinum (Sm/Lg) Environmental Improvements Waste Stream & Resource Areas Environmental Service Projects Quantifiable Results from Improvements Made Environmental Framework Environmental Statement Environmental Plan (EP) / P2 Plan Environmental Management System (EMS) Environmental Assessments Best Management Practices Standard Operating Procedures linked to BMPs Employee Environmental Education Collaboration with Vendors Environmental Goals (to be completed following year for program recognition membership) Waste Streams & Resources 2 2 3/4 3/4 Environmental Service Projects Start tracking Waste Streams Develop an EMS (dependent on industry and size) WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 9

14 2.1 Program Membership Retention & Renewal Members must submit all required materials to the P2 Program Coordinator by January 31 to be considered for program participation. Those businesses that submit materials after January 31 are not be eligible for recognition for the previous year but may still qualify for current year program. All memberships are renewed every year with proper paperwork and documentation filed with DEQ P2 Coordinator. Missing or incomplete information may result in lower than requested recognition level or removal from the program. Termination of memberships Memberships may be revoked at anytime during calendar year with any corrective action taken by local, county, state, or federal entities that cite improper business practices. Members are responsible for contacting WP3 Coordinator for any considerations. Failure to produce documentation required for levels of recognition and participation may result in dismissal from the program. Any dismissals from the program will be notified by or phone call from program coordinator no later than March 31. Any questions can be answered by contacting The State of Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality or the Program Coordinator. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 10

15 3.0 Status Requirements PLATINUM STATUS 1) Basic Permit Compliance (if applicable) *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 2) Basic Environmental and Sustainability achievements *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 REQUIREMENTS Report on Organization s Recycling Efforts Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable Provide Senior Management Commitment Form 3) Level specific requirements P2 Plan on file that has at least 4 actionable items to reduce current pollution or prevent pollution Demonstration of Environmental Best Management Practices (BMP) and relation to Standard Operating Procedures Updated P2 plan with quarterly goals and objectives Implementation and sustained P2 plan for full calendar year Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods Viable proof that P2 plan was able to reduce or prevent pollution of business for calendar year Report on involvement in at least one Environmental Service Project Share P2 plan with vendors (up/downstream) in order to reduce and recycle wastes Violation free from EPA and WDEQ for calendar year Describe employee education strategy relating to environmental goals Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable Perform one annual PDCA cycle SECTION 1 Organizations that achieve Platinum Status shall have submitted required results to the Program Coordinator by January 31. Results should showcase the progress made over the past 12 calendar months. Results based off the above requirements should be filed in accordance with the guidelines listed in the WP3 Handbook. SECTION Recycling All organizations that are accepted into the WP3 will need to demonstrate their commitment to recycling at some level. All demonstrations must show improvements from previous year. 2.2 & 2.3 Waste Streams & Resources 2.2) Organizations that wish to achieve Platinum status are required to report environmental improvements for a minimum of 4 waste streams & resource areas. These are areas in which your organization has been making specific sustainability efforts. 2.3) Platinum level members are required to have numerical or other supporting data (quantifiable results) to illustrate environmental improvements. Project and/or improvement results must include a narrative description, relevant dates or project implementation or tracking timeline, and some type of graphical illustration of your quantifiable results such as tables, charts, and/or graphs. 2.4 Environmental Service Projects (*also see Handbook section 1.4 and Appendix B) Organizations that meet the above requirements are also required to have been involved in at least one Environmental Service Project within the last 12 months. Information provided should include the type of activity, date(s) length of time, targeted audience, and/or graphs. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 11

16 Platinum Status CONTINUED SECTION Environmental Statement It is important for WP3 Platinum members to have a written commitment to environmental improvements and to share that statement with organization employees. There is no required format, but an environmental statement should reflect an organization s views on its environmental role in a sustainable community. The statement must be supported by senior management and shared within the organization. SECTION Waste Streams & Resources GOALS: We encourage members to continually increase their level of commitment to the environment and sustainability. WP3 Platinum Small Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of 3 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. Platinum Large Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of four waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. A goal description should include why this is important for your organization, how it could be implemented and supported, and how you plan to track your results. It should also include baseline and goal measurements. 4.2 Goal Plan In this section, members must describe how they plan to reach their goals for waste streams and resources. This includes not only the baseline figures and goal figures, but also what processes will be involved (equipment and materials, protocol changes, etc.) and what challenges (if any) you anticipate. SECTION & 5.2 Environmental Outreach & Community Service Project Goals One way for organizations to support the environment and sustainability in their community is through Environmental Service Projects. These projects are done in addition to measureable pollution prevention actions for Waste Streams and Resources. As a WP3 Platinum member, your organization will be asked to support a minimum of 1 environmental project within the year. You may participate in the same project multiple years or choose to support multiple projects. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 12

17 GOLD STATUS 1) Basic Permit Compliance (if applicable) *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 2) Basic Environmental and Sustainability achievements *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 REQUIREMENTS Report on Organization s Recycling Efforts Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable Provide Senior Management Commitment Form 3) Level specific requirements P2 Plan on file that has at least 3 actionable items to reduce current pollution or prevent pollution Demonstration of Environmental Best Management Practices (BMP) and relation to Standard Operating Procedures Updated P2 plan with quarterly goals and objectives Implementation and sustained P2 plan for full calendar year Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods Viable proof that P2 plan was able to reduce or prevent pollution of business for calendar year Report on involvement in at least one Environmental Service Project Share P2 plan with vendors (up/downstream) in order to reduce and recycle wastes Violation free from EPA and WDEQ for calendar year Describe employee education strategy relating to environmental goals Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable SECTION 1 Organizations that achieve Gold Status shall have submitted required results to the Program Coordinator by January 31. Results should showcase the progress made over the past 12 calendar months. Results based off the above requirements should be filed in accordance with the guidelines listed in the WP3 Handbook. SECTION Recycling All organizations that are accepted into the WP3 will need to demonstrate their commitment to recycling at some level. All demonstrations must show improvements from previous year. 2.2 & 2.3 Waste Streams & Resources 2.2) Organizations that wish to achieve Gold status are required to report environmental improvements for a minimum of 3 waste streams & resource areas. These are areas in which your organization has been making specific sustainability efforts. 2.3) Gold level members are required to have numerical or other supporting data (quantifiable results) to illustrate environmental improvements. Project and/or improvement results must include a narrative description, relevant dates or project implementation or tracking timeline, and some type of graphical illustration of your quantifiable results such as tables, charts, and/or graphs. 2.4 Environmental Service Projects (*also see Handbook section 1.4 and Appendix B) Organizations that meet the above requirements are also required to have been involved in at least one Environmental Service Project within the last 12 months. Information provided should include the type of activity, date(s) length of time, targeted audience, and/or graphs. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 13

18 Gold Status CONTINUED SECTION Environmental Statement It is important for WP3 Gold members to have a written commitment to environmental improvements and to share that statement with organization employees. There is no required format, but an environmental statement should reflect an organization s views on its environmental role in a sustainable community. The statement must be supported by senior management and shared within the organization. SECTION Waste Streams & Resources GOALS: We encourage members to continually increase their level of commitment to the environment and sustainability. WP3 Gold Small Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of 3 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. Gold Large Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of 4 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. A goal description should include why this is important for your organization, how it could be implemented and supported, and how you plan to track your results. It should also include baseline and goal measurements. 4.2 Goal Plan In this section, members must describe how they plan to reach their goals for waste streams and resources. This includes not only the baseline figures and goal figures, but also what processes will be involved (equipment and materials, protocol changes, etc.) and what challenges (if any) you anticipate. SECTION & 5.2 Environmental Outreach & Community Service Project Goals One way for organizations to support the environment and sustainability in their community is through Environmental Service Projects. These projects are done in addition to measureable pollution prevention actions for Waste Streams and Resources. As a WP3 Gold member, your organization will be asked to support a minimum of 1 environmental project within the year. You may participate in the same project multiple years or choose to support multiple projects. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 14

19 SILVER STATUS REQUIREMENTS 1) Basic Permit Compliance (if applicable) *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 2) Basic Environmental and Sustainability achievements *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 Report on Organization s Recycling Efforts Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable Provide Senior Management Commitment Form 3) Level specific requirements P2 Plan on file that has at least 2 actionable items to reduce current pollution or prevent pollution Updated P2 plan with quarterly goals and objectives Implementation and sustained P2 plan for full calendar year Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods Viable proof that P2 plan was able to reduce or prevent pollution of business for calendar year Violation free from EPA and WDEQ for calendar year Provide Environmental Statement, Environmental Plan, and EMS if applicable SECTION 1 Organizations that achieve Silver Status shall have submitted required results to the Program Coordinator by January 31. Results should showcase the progress made over the past 12 calendar months. Results based off the above requirements should be filed in accordance with the guidelines listed in the WP3 Handbook. SECTION Recycling All organizations that are accepted into the WP3 will need to demonstrate their commitment to recycling at some level. All demonstrations must show improvements from previous year. 2.2 & 2.3 Waste Streams & Resources 2.2) Organizations that wish to achieve Silver status are required to report environmental improvements for a minimum of 2 waste streams & resource areas. These are areas in which your organization has been making specific sustainability efforts. 2.3) Silver level members are required to have numerical or other supporting data (quantifiable results) to illustrate environmental improvements. Project and/or improvement results must include a narrative description, relevant dates or project implementation or tracking timeline, and some type of graphical illustration of your quantifiable results such as tables, charts, and/or graphs. SECTION Environmental Statement It is important for WP3 Silver members to have a written commitment to environmental improvements and to share that statement with organization employees. There is no required format, but an environmental statement should reflect an organization s views on its environmental role in a sustainable community. The statement must be supported by senior management and shared within the organization. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 15

20 Silver Status CONTINUED SECTION Waste Streams & Resources GOALS: We encourage members to continually increase their level of commitment to the environment and sustainability. WP3 Silver member are required to choose a minimum of 2 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. Silver Large Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of 2 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. A goal description should include why this is important for your organization, how it could be implemented and supported, and how you plan to track your results. It should also include baseline and goal measurements. 4.2 Goal Plan In this section, members must describe how they plan to reach their goals for waste streams and resources. This includes not only the baseline figures and goal figures, but also what processes will be involved (equipment and materials, protocol changes, etc.) and what the challenges (if any) you anticipate. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 16

21 BRONZE STATUS REQUIREMENTS 1) Basic Permit Compliance (if applicable) *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 2) Basic Environmental and Sustainability achievements *WP3 Handbook Section 2.0 Report on Organization s Recycling Efforts 3) Level specific requirements P2 Plan on file that has at least 2 actionable items to reduce current pollution or prevent pollution Updated P2 plan with quarterly goals and objectives Implementation and sustained P2 plan for full calendar year Report quantifiable environmental improvements and current waste stream tracking methods Viable proof that P2 plan was able to reduce or prevent pollution of business for calendar year Violation free from EPA and WDEQ for calendar year SECTION 1 Organizations that achieve Bronze Status shall have submitted required results to the Program Coordinator by January 31. Results should showcase the progress made over the past 12 calendar months. Results based off the above requirements should be filed in accordance with the guidelines listed in the WP3 Handbook. SECTION Recycling All organizations that are accepted into the WP3 will need to demonstrate their commitment to recycling at some level. All demonstrations must show improvements from previous year. 2.2 & 2.3 Waste Streams & Resources 2.2) Organizations that wish to achieve Bronze status are required to report environmental improvements for a minimum of 2 waste streams & resources areas. These are areas in which your organization has been making specific sustainability efforts. 2.3) Bronze level members are required to have numerical or other supporting data (quantifiable results) to illustrate environmental improvements. Project and/or improvement results must include a narrative description, relevant dates or project implementation or tracking timeline, and some type of graphical illustration of your quantifiable results such as tables, charts, and/or graphs. SECTION Waste Streams & Resources GOALS: We encourage members to continually increase their level of commitment to the environment and sustainability. WP3 Bronze members are required to choose a minimum of 2 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. Bronze Large Sector Businesses are required to choose a minimum of 2 waste streams and resources goals with a one year deadline achievement period. A goal description should include why this is important for your organization, how it could be implemented and supported, and how you plan to track your results. It should also include baseline and goal measurements. 3.2 Goal Plan In this section, members must describe how they plan to reach their goals for waste streams and resources. This includes not only the baseline figures and goal figures, but also what processes will be involved (equipment and materials, protocol changes, etc.) and what the challenges (if any) you anticipate. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 17

22 4.0 Membership Review & Award Process All information shall be submitted to Program contact no later than January 31. After review of data submitted internal audits will be conducted to verify eligibility. After internal audits are conducted, finalized information will be developed and processed for delivery to recipients. Members at any level will be contacted directly by P2 Program Coordinator no later than March 31 to inform them of their level of qualification. Members will be announced in a formal press release by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality no later than April 15 of the following year from submittal of data. Press release shall be handled by WDEQ PIO. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook 18

23 APPEDNDICES Table of Contents Appendix A Environmental Statements II Appendix B Environmental Service Project Examples III Appendix C Annual / Final Report Requirements V Appendix D Mock P2 / EP Plan VI WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook I

24 Appendix A Developing an Environmental Statement An Environmental Statement is a written statement of an organizations intentions and principles in relation to its overall environmental performance. Sometimes also referred to as an environmental / sustainability policy statement or environmental / sustainability mission statement. It should be several sentences long and encompass the following: Why is environmental performance important to the organization? What goal(s) are you trying to achieve and how will you determine they have been met? What is the overall environmental / sustainability vision for your organization? Your organization might use a process similar to the one below to develop a statement. Step 1 What does your organization want to achieve through an environmental statement and environmental framework? Brainstorm a list of actions, words, or very short phrases that reflect your organization s environmental commitment to your employees, customers, and the community as a whole. Step 2 Take the list of words / phrases you have thought of above and put them into a one or two sentence statement. Step 3 List the ways that your company is or plans to achieve the commitment(s) expressed in the statements in Step 2. Step 4 Using the list you came up with in step 3 put together a statement of how your organization will carry out its environmental commitment(s). Step 5 Combine the statements you created in steps 2 and 4 and fine tune them to make your complete environmental statement. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook II

25 Appendix B Environmental Service Project Examples Environmental Service Projects are a way for organizations to go beyond their environmental achievements within their company and bring their commitment to sustainability and environmental improvements to their communities. Environmental Service Projects can have a variety of formats, themes, and goals. Projects can be educational in nature or result in on-the-ground environmental improvements within the community. Involvement in Environmental Service Projects is not a requirement for application to Bronze or Silver. It is a requirement for goals for the Platinum and Gold levels. Involvement or participation in projects can range from helping to sponsor an existing event through financial or in-kind donations to creating and hosting your own event. We also encourage organizations to actively involve their employees in the projects. Involving customers and vendors is also a great way to expand your reach. THE EXAMPLES below do not represent a complete list, but serve to illustrate the types of activities we are looking for. Waste Reduction Support a community recycling program Host a household hazardous waste collection Participate in a Great American Cleanup Support a used electronics collection event Water Conservation Host a water efficiency workshop Promote sustainable lawn care through xeriscaping, composting, and other activities Distribute low-flow plumbing fixtures and leak detecting devices Promote rain water collection Water Quality Sponsor a public education campaign on nonpoint source water pollution Host a Lake or River cleanup Participate in the watershed protection programs Monitor local water quality with a volunteer program Air Quality Host a mobile emissions testing and/or vehicle maintenance event Host a lawnmower exchange event Educate your community about ozone action days Energy Conservation Promoting green building techniques and ideas Promoting the use of Energy Star products and the use of renewable energy WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook III

26 Educate your community about residential energy conservation Assist local school, churches, or small businesses with energy projects Land Protection Support community wildlife habitat projects Work with local groups to acquire and preserve local land Environmental Education Sponsor or host continuing environmental education opportunities for area teachers Sponsor a lecture series on environmental issues Support the development of environmental PSAs or videos Support established, local environmental education programs for schools Environmental Awareness Events Sponsor Earth Day activities in April Host Pollution Prevention Week activities in September If you need assistance in developing an outreach program that will make an impact, contact the P2 Program Coordinator or the Outreach office within the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. WDEQ may have ideas or contacts that may have ideas for your line of business that your organization may tie into easily. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook IV

27 Appendix C Guidance for Annual Reporting All members are required to submit annual reports to be considered for any type of recognition. The reports are tools for the member organization and the WP3 staff to track progress made towards goals stated in the application and to address any roadblocks or set-backs that may have occurred. Ongoing dialog between the member organizations and WP3 staff is encouraged, but the reports provide documentation toward goal progress. The final reports should encompass your quarterly audits/goals/objectives as required by each membership level. There is no standard format for the reporting, but the following elements should be included: Reporting period dates Contact information Any changes in organizational management that effect WP3 goals (if applicable) Any new environmental permit applications Table of goals and progress towards each **See Appendix D for tables used as example Detailed information on progress Were goals met? What steps are needed to reach goal? What steps were taken already? What worked well? What areas were challenging? WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook V

28 Appendix D Example P2 Plan The following pages provide an example of a Pollution Prevention Plan. This is what your plan may look like but is not required to be in the same format. The information required is based upon level of participation see section 3.0. If you have questions concerning your P2 Plan please contact the WP3 Coordinator. WDEQ Wyoming Pollution Prevention Program Handbook VI

29 Pollution Prevention (P2) Plan Department of Environmental Quality 122 W. 25 th Street Herschler 4W Cheyenne, WY Submitted by: Joe Sample ABC Company 09/15/2012 ABC Company Confidential File: Pollution Prevention Plan.doc Date Published: 09/15/2012