Free cleaning supplies, safe environment

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brittany A. Chase
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Every year roughly 500 Airmen move out of Misawa AB, leaving behind harsh cleaning chemicals, paints, aerosals and other hazardous materials.

The 35th Civil Engineer Squadron hazardous waste facility area ensures proper housing and disposing of this waste, which includes offering it for free to base members in need of cleaning supplies, batteries and much more.

“We provide hazardous waste management quality assurance support for Misawa AB work sites,” said Jay Tababa, a 35th CES hazardous waste storage area operator. “This includes housing and contractors in accordance with the Japan Environmental Governing Standards and all applicable Federal and Government of Japan Requirements.”

Last year alone, the hazardous waste team disposed of 115,774 pounds of materials from the Air Force and 4,627 from the Navy, recycled 11,712 gallons of waste oil and fuel and recycled 41,209 pounds of lead-acid batteries.

“The importance of the hazardous waste facility is to protect human health and the environment,” Tababa said. “We also encourage waste reduction and conservation of energy and natural resources.”

In fiscal year 2017’s six months alone, the team has disposed of 109,648 pounds of materials from the Air Force and 18,524 from the Navy, recycled 9,938 gallons of waste oil and fuel and recycled 31,813 pounds of lead-acid batteries.

Koji Takayama, a 35th CES hazardous waste storage area manager, stated their job ensures a clean environment for all residents.

Although their main focus is making sure the base is safe from hazardous materials, they also urge residents to stop in and save money by taking materials such as household cleaners.

“We encourage all residents to drop off any materials they no longer need, as well as pick up any cleaning supplies, paints, batteries or other materials for no cost,” said Tababa.

To pick up or drop off any materials stop by building 977 located near the Weasel’s Den.