Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center recognized Earth Day to inform hospital staff and visitors about the differences they can make when it comes to saving the planet 18 April.
Staff and visitors learned how they could help them improve the environment from Fort Hood Directorate of Public Works Environmental and Recycle Divisions, Keep Coppers Cove Beautiful, Stryker Sustainability Solutions, and United through Reading representatives.
“We do outreach, volunteer and composting through D.P.W. throughout the year and we have a partnership with Stryker, which is our internal single use device company,” said Maj.  Kandice Hines, environmental science engineering officer, CRDAMC. “There are so many opportunities for sustainability initiatives that we’re doing internally like water sense and with our electricity to make the hospital a better and more green space.”  
The event provided another opportunity for Fort Hood and surrounding community organizations to educate its members on how their daily activities affect the environment and the differences they can make in sustaining the earth.
“Our recycle programs purpose is to divert as much material from the landfills as we can and to make as much money as we can selling that material,” said Michael Bush, operations manager, Fort Hood D.P.W. Recycle Division. “Once we cover the cost of our operation we give money back to the installation, so the Fourth of July fireworks are paid for by recycling dollars, different single Soldiers events, and other things.”
“When you recycle it has an environmental benefit and also an economic benefit to Fort Hood,” said Bush. 
We can all make a difference when it comes to saving the planet. Everyone is encouraged to find some little ways to help improve our environment, whether that is choosing to recycle, using less water, or opting for public transportation over individual car use.
“Earth Day requires everyone to do their part,” said Hines. “There are so many opportunities and one person can change the world.”
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