The EHSCP Environmental Committee was formed in late 2008, and the first meeting was held by conference call in February, 2009. The Committee was formed to address environmental issues that affect the communications industry. For a list of the committee members go to Committee Membership.

The charter of the Environmental Committee is:

• To share ideas and respond to environmental issues and regulations that affect our industry. For a list of comments provided by the EHSCP on proposed environmental regulations go to the Advocacy.
• To monitor and alert the EHSCP companies on new environmental laws and standards and their impact to our industry.
• To share new ideas and best practices surrounding environmental compliance as well as green / environmental stewardship issues.
  

Environmental Laws

There are many environmental laws that affect our industry.  These include: 

• CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act)

• EPCRA (Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act)

• RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act)

• CAA (Clean Air Act)

• CWA (Clean Water Act)

• PPA (Pollution Prevention Act)

• State Environmental Laws & Regulations

• Local Environmental Laws & Regulations

Operational Impacts
Many communications operations may impact the environment, including but not limited to: 

• Discharges from manholes

• Energy consumption

• Use and handling of batteries

• Emissions from emergency engines

• Stormwater discharges from land disturbing activities

• Fleet emissions

• Waste management

• Spill response

• Facility operations

• Fuel storage tanks 

Opportunities
There are many Green/Sustainability opportunities impacting our industry.  These include:

• Facilities & Energy Management

• Green Building Design (LEED Certification)

• Recycling

• • Wireless Phones,
    

  • Batteries,
    

  • fluorescent bulbs,
    

  • paper,
    

  • cans, bottles/glass, etc.

• Corporate Social Responsibility

• Green House Gas (GHG) Emissions

• Alternative Energy Sources

• • Hydrogen Fuel Cells, Solar, Wind, 

  • Geothermal Systems, etc.

• Employee Commuting Programs

• Telecommuting Programs