Delaware Department of Health and Social Services Joins EPA's Responsible Appliance Disposal Program

Delaware's Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) has become the first state partner in the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Program. By joining this nationwide effort, DHSS aims to protect the ozone layer and reduce greenhouse gases by properly disposing of old refrigerators, freezers, and other appliances. This initiative aligns with Delaware's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. DHSS's decision to partner with the EPA's RAD program is a significant step towards reducing the state's environmental footprint.

Key Takeaways:

• The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) has become the first state partner in the EPA's Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Program.
• The program aims to protect the ozone layer and reduce greenhouse gases by properly disposing of old refrigerators, freezers, and other appliances.
• DHSS estimates that it will divert more than six tons of waste from landfills by 2016.
• The RAD program partners include retailers, municipalities, utilities, manufacturers, and universities.
• In 2013, RAD partners achieved emissions reductions equivalent to the annual carbon emissions from the electricity use of more than 309,000 homes.
• Of the emissions reductions, 64 percent can be attributed to reclaiming or destroying refrigerants, 30 percent to reclaiming or destroying foam-blowing agents, and 6 percent to recycling durable materials.
• RAD partners have processed over 880,000 refrigerators and other appliances since 2012, resulting in reduced emissions of ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases.
• The program has also reduced energy consumption, increased the recycling of durable goods, and ensured the proper handling of hazardous substances.

Statistics:

• DHSS estimates that it will divert more than six tons of waste from landfills by 2016.
• In 2013, RAD partners achieved emissions reductions equivalent to the annual carbon emissions from the electricity use of more than 309,000 homes.
• 64 percent of emissions reductions can be attributed to reclaiming or destroying refrigerants.
• 30 percent of emissions reductions can be attributed to reclaiming or destroying foam-blowing agents.
• 6 percent of emissions reductions can be attributed to recycling durable materials.
• RAD partners have processed over 880,000 refrigerators and other appliances since 2012.

Sources:

• Department of Health and Social Services, Delaware: news release, April 21, 2015.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: RAD Program information, www.epa.gov/ozone/partnerships/rad/.
• Delaware Department of Health and Social Services: RAD Program photos, www.flickr.com/photos/deldhss/sets/72157651681571819/.