SBUH Receives Highest Award for Environmental Quality

STONY BROOK, NY. – On April 26, 2007, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Stony Brook University Medical Center for its outstanding efforts to protect the environment as part of its broad celebration of Earth Day.

“Our mission is excellence in patient care, education, research and community service,” said Stony Brook CEO Steven L. Strongwater, M.D. “With that in mind, Jill [Kavoukian] led the team to develop new programs and enhance existing ones to meet or exceed our regulatory requirements.”

As a result of collaborative efforts driven by the Stony Brook Environmental Health and Safety group, the hospital has significantly reduced its use of mercury; increased its paper, cardboard and wood pallet recycling; increased its use of green products; established a hazardous waste minimization and recycling program; promoted sustainability and introduced an integrated pest management program. In addition, the hospital was awarded the prestigious “Making Medecine Mercury Free Award” in 2006.

”This was truly a team effort. Hospital Custodial Services, Food and Nutritional Services, Materials Management, Clinical Laboratory, Nursing, Facilities, Pharmacy and Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) staff all worked together to achieve the goal of environmental quality at Stony Brook University Hospital,” said Kavoukian, Associate Director of Healthcare Safety.

Each April, EPA selects Environmental Quality Award winners from non-profit, environmental and community groups, individual citizens, educators, business organizations and members of the news media, as well as from federal, state, local or tribal governments and agencies. The award is given to individuals or organizations who have contributed significantly to improving the environment in New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Stony Brook University Hospital was honored along with 15 other individuals and organizations for their outstanding efforts to protect the environment in New York. Regional Administrator Alan Steinberg presented the EPA's Environmental Quality Awards at a ceremony in EPA's offices in Manhattan.

“EPA applauds the tireless dedication of the award winners, who are truly environmental champions,” said Steinberg. “Their extraordinary contributions make our world a better place and remind us that individuals really can make a difference.”

To see more details on the hospital’s accomplishments in each of the listed areas, visit http://www.stonybrookmedicalcenter.org/body.cfm?id=971.

Pictured Above: At home, Stony Brook Unviversity Hospital CEO, Steven L. Strongwater, M.D., recognizes Kavoukian and Diane Carillo, Associate Director, Support Services Division.