U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Indian Health Service: The Federal Health Program for American Indians and Alaska Natives
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Environmental Sustainability

LATEST GREEN TIP

09-04-2013
Did you know? Clean clothes come at cost: at five pounds of CO2 emitted per wash/dry cycle, the emissions add up fast. Here are some ways to reduce your laundry's footprint: Outer layers (like sweaters and jackets) and middle layers don't touch the skin and can usually be worn more than once. For items that aren't worn long, a quick ironing to remove wrinkles is a good substitute for a full wash cycle. Wash one full load instead of two small ones. If you don't have a full load, wait until you do. Use cold water. Hot water accounts for 90 % of the energy used by washers and cold water is usually just as effective. Note: it's still a good idea to use hot water on sheets and bedding to help remove allergens. Ensure your washer and dryer are as energy and water efficient as possible, such as ENERGY STAR certified.Zoom In
Green Laundry Habits
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is responsible for providing federal health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. Inherently tied to this mission is our obligation to promote healthy American Indian and Alaska Native communities and our responsibility to ensure the well-being of the environment we work in, both indoors and outdoors.

To address this need for healthy and sustainable practices, IHS strives to not only meet all federal requirements but also to be forward-acting on all environmental efforts.

To minimize our impact on the environment, IHS staff, contractors, and suppliers try to ensure that environmental considerations are introduced at the earliest stages possible when planning and implementing agency operations. This website provides information on what IHS is doing as an agency, and what you as an individual can do for sustainability. In addition, it provides resources, trainings, and events to help further inform everyone about sustainability.

UPDATES:

Congratulations to the IHS 2012 Green Champions!

Check out the brand new IHS 2012 Sustainability Annual Progress Report [PDF - 1.6MB]

New IHS environmental directive: Indian Health Manual, Chapter 13 - "Environmental Compliance, Stewardship, and Sustainability"

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