Spangdahlem goes 'green'

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brittney Frees
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  Sabers here are working to make the world a cleaner place, starting with Spangdahlem Air Base. In an effort to make the base more environmentally friendly, the Sustainable Saber Team has developed ways to raise environmental awareness within the 52nd Fighter Wing and to make lasting changes to the base and the environment.

The team, a group of individuals dedicated to improving Spangdahlem's environmental footprint, has already completed many projects. Some of these projects include installing recycling receptacles around the base and implementing fuel-reduction training.

"Our group's charge is to make Spangdahlem more environmentally friendly, and we are going to do that by raising environmental awareness and making lasting changes within the wing," said Capt. Christopher Bennett, 52nd Component Maintenance Squadron operations officer.

The Sustainable Saber Team has many projects planned for the future to include classes and workshops to educate Airmen on environmental concern, a community agriculture garden and fruit trees to promote healthy eating habits, construction of bike and pedestrian-friendly paths, expansion of the base hybrid vehicle program, and creation of a bio-fuel program.

Every year, people come together to help improve the planet. Whether it is taking a pledge to recycle, using more energy-efficient light bulbs, planting trees or picking up trash, people from all over the world are trying to conserve the planet's resources.
"In everything that we do, we keep in mind how each change will be sustainable. Our hope is that these changes will continue throughout the years," Captain Bennett said.
If going 'green' is your thing, these tips may help you be more environmentally friendly:

· Use fluorescent light bulbs
· Unplug your electronics when you are not using them
· Wash your clothes in cold water
· Instead of using a dishwasher, wash your dishes by hand
· Take shorter showers
· Try walking, biking or rollerblading to work
· Buy organic foods
· Use a water filter instead of bottled water
· Recycle everything that is recyclable

For more ways to 'go green' visit www.worldwatch.org.