Increased efficiency, reduced costs and greater operational consistency

In light of this summer's expected electricity shortages and water rationing we have set objectives and targets that will focus on resource conservation for both our bus and rail maintenance operations. Through these conservation initiatives we plan to save about 10% or our budgeted utilities which could result in about $90,000.

Building on the momentum generated early on in the program, we moved forward with a recycling program for lab waste that has diverted 18,000 lbs of waste from the landfill in a three-month period.

In our efforts to conserve potable water use in our operations we realized we have 1 million gallons of rainwater available in our sedimentation basin per large storm event. By using this water for dust control and soil compact we estimate conserving about 800,000 gallons of potable water and $1500 in water fees on an annual bases.

Systematically analyzing compliance issues revealed an opportunity to save money. Fifteen departments were responsible for obtaining their own air quality permits – 23 altogether. The implementation team consolidated these permits into 8, saving the city $16,000/year.

In a relatively short period of time we have learned and implemented efficient management tools for defining our environmental priorities and responsibilities. We have developed performance partnerships with our city organizations. We can better prioritize and defend our resource needs. The EMS tools give us a better understanding of what we are required to do and the means to do it consistently, competently, and efficiently.

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