4 South PACU and CMC Endoscopy are committed to recycling and sustainability!

Two departments each recycled 500 pounds of soft plastics (for a total of 1,000 pounds!) through the Trex Soft Plastics Recycling Program and obtained two new benches for CMC's campus!

4 South PACU and CMC Endoscopy collected the soft plastics and film that they generate through their operations, and rather than dispose of the items in the trash, they took the extra step to recycle it. Successful participation in this recycling program requires commitment and collaboration from all team members to properly segregate recyclable plastics from trash/other waste. 4 South PACU's bench was placed at the trolley stop at the Cancer Center/Rehab building and Endoscopy's bench was placed on the garden path at Riverside. These benches can be enjoyed by staff, patients, and visitors and reflect the organization's commitment to sustainability. Some of the benefits of plastic recycling include:

• Decreased environmental impact of plastic waste – Plastic waste impacts land pollution, water pollution, and air pollution and can harm animals.  
• Public health benefits - Many of the additives in plastic are potential carcinogens and endocrine disruptors and microplastics can be ingested by animals which then can circulate in the food chain and be eaten by humans.  

This collaborative effort also involved Carilion Clinic Design, Engineering and Maintenance, and Property Management.

Both teams are continuing their recycling efforts - thank you for your commitment to keeping plastic out of our landfills!