Susan Erlenwein, Director
News & Events
Plastic Bags Get the Boot
Did you know plastic bags require billions of barrels of oil to produce and break down into toxic material? They are fatal to wildlife, they contaminate our soil and waterways, and they cost more to recycle than to produce new. So what do we do?
It's time to cut the plastic and switch to reusable bags, which can be purchased at many retail and online stores. Reusable bags have come a long way in a short time. Large canvass bags are available for heavy items, transparent vegetable bags are a perfect substitute, and nylon bags that fold away into 3" pouches fit into any car's glove box! Just search for reusable bags online and you're bound to find an abundance of variations that will suit your needs. Click here for more easy ways to make a difference in our environment.
Ozone
Ground-level ozone is a man-made pollutant formed from a chemical reaction between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. More than half of all ozone-forming pollutants are caused by everyday actions, such as driving, painting, refueling, and using gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.
Prolonged exposure to ground-level ozone can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and lungs leading to inflammation, chest pains, and difficulty breathing. Ground-level ozone damages vegetation and reduces crop production. In Sedgwick County, the highest levels of ozone typically occur from May to September. Watch a short video about ozone and the small changes you can make to help reduce it.
No-spill gas cans
Have you accidentally spilled gasoline when filling the tank on a mower, edger, or chainsaw? These spills can contaminate our water and soil. The vapors from these spills release the chemicals that form ozone. Now, no-spill gas cans are available at local merchants. Purchase these cans instead, and remember to recycle or dispose of your old can - don't keep using it and don't give it to someone else!
Mission:
The Department of Environmental Resources is responsible for protecting the environment through conservation of resources. Our department coordinates all components of solid waste management, promotes waste minimization, and provides environmental education for the citizens and businesses of Sedgwick County.
© Copyright, 2009 Sedgwick County, Kansas
Please report problems to the webmaster
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED