Albany State University, GA Environmental Policy and Procedure

Type: Policy
Status: Effective as of 9/1/06
Source File: http://www.asurams.edu/pdf/environmental_policy.pdf
Text:
Albany State University demonstrated that an environmental policy can be written in the form of a procedure. One advantage of this approach is that the University faculty and staff can make a direct connection between the policy and their departmental responsibilities for implementing the policy. The university includes its policy in the Administrative Policy Manual because that manual already exists and is well distributed. Therefore, integrating EMS requirements with existing manual, procedures, training and responsibilities will be a key implementation strategy for Albany State University
Policy
It is the policy of Albany State University (ASU) to conduct all of its operations in an
environmentally responsible and sensitive manner. Albany State University will fully
comply with both the letter and the spirit of all applicable federal, state and local
regulatory requirements governing hazardous materials and wastes, pollution prevention
and environmental protection. It is recognized that the health and wellbeing
of the
environment contributes to the health and wellbeing
of the communities we serve.
Albany State University will strive to continuously improve its systems and procedures
related to environmental protection and pollution prevention activities. ASU will manage
its facilities and properties in an environmentally responsible manner. ASU will
participate as appropriate in community, industry and/or governmental sponsored
groups
addressing environmental issues affecting the communities we serve.
Narrative
Environmental protection is the responsibility of all Albany State University departments
and employees. As an institution of higher learning, Albany State University must
handle and manage a wide variety of potentially hazardous or polluting material
including hazardous waste, medical waste, used motor oil, pesticides and housekeeping
products. Many of our processes present potential water and air quality issues that
demand continuous monitoring and control. Proper and responsible handling of these
materials and processes is imperative to prevent pollution, reduce waste and protect our
environment. There are a host of federal, state and local regulatory requirements in place
to guide this institution in achieving environmental compliance.
Procedure
I. Each department will continuously assess its operations to identify potential
safety hazards and pollution risks. Each department is responsible for
establishing and maintaining department-specific
policies and procedures
designed to reduce or eliminate environmental hazards and minimize any
negative environmental impact when applicable.
:A. Potential risks will be minimized to the extent possible by seeking out less environmentally hazardous products, equipment or procedures.
:B. Appropriate engineering controls will be implemented when it is not possible to eliminate environmentally hazardous material or procedures.
:C. All departments and employees will strive to reduce all types of wastes through identifying and eliminating wasteful practices and products and participating in institutional recycling and waste reduction programs.
:D. Departments will educate and communicate institutional and department-specific environmental policies, goals and objectives to employees as required.
:E. Departments will consider using products that have recycled content, taking economic and quality factors into account.
II. The Core Team is responsible for monitoring environmental compliance issues,
recommending and assuring that corrective action is implemented as warranted and
correcting deficiencies.
:A. Objectives and targets will be established to assure continuous improvement in Albany State University’s environmental performance. The Core Team structure is responsible for establishing goals and implementing programs to meet targets, monitoring progress and reporting activities to executive management.
Category:Colleges
Category:Georgia
Category:Policies
Category:Sustainability Policies