Broward County Commission to Recognize Broward Health for its
Environmentally Friendly Business Practices

Broward Health will be recognized by the Broward County Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department for its environmentally responsible business practices at the Broward County Commission Chambers on April 13. The 2009 Emerald Award will be presented to Broward Health in the Pollution Prevention: Hazardous Waste Reduction - large business category.

The Emerald Award Program annually recognizes, honors and promotes environmentally sound businesses in Broward County for their efforts to protect the environment

"With a system-wide concerted effort, Broward Health was able to prevent pollution, recycle more than 1000 tons of materials, and implement cost savings that directly affect the community," said Frank Nask, President/CEO of Broward Health. "I am proud of our Broward Health team and their achievements."

Broward Health submitted pollution prevention and recycling accomplishments practiced throughout its medical centers, primary care centers, physician practices, and corporate offices in 2009. Included in the many accomplishments were the recycling of 633 tons of paper, a paperless Purchasing department, tons of surplus materials were recycled, solvent recycling systems were put in place in the hospital labs saving $48,000 per year, and 1,500 gallons of hazardous solvent waste. In addition, computer power management systems were installed, and 150,000 pounds per year of cardboard, plastics, and glass were recycled. To help employees find cost-saving solutions for the commute to and from work, a STAR POOLING program was continued.

"These efforts instill a feeling of pride and accomplishment throughout Broward Health organizations and motivate our employees to explore even more green practices," said Patricia O'Rourke, Corporate Safety Coordinator.

Broward Health, providing service for more than 50 years, is a nationally recognized system offering world class health care services to our neighbors in South Florida. One of the 10 largest public health systems in the nation, Broward Health includes Broward General Medical Center, North Broward Medical Center, Imperial Point Medical Center, Coral Springs Medical Center, Chris Evert Children's Hospital, Broward Health Weston and more than 30 facilities of the Community Health Services and Broward Health Physician Group.

For more information visit, www.browardhealth.org.