On board Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Earth Week isn't merely an event that is celebrated for one week, but rather, a mentality that is embraced every single day.

Last month for Earth Week, NSA Bahrain and its Environmental Department held a tree planting ceremony, educated the community about recycling, and hosted a base-wide cleanup. Did you know that NSA Bahrain has an award-winning Environmental Department? The department won the Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Award in 2010 and 2014 for environmental quality in an overseas installation. The Qualified Recycling Program played a major role in these accomplishments.

The QRP operates under certain guidelines that govern how the proceeds from recycling programs can be spent. Every item recycled earns money for NSA. These funds are used to plant more trees and bushes, as well as build shaded bus stops and walkways.

"Recycling generates about $80,000 per year, after expenses, from the program," said Patrick Smith, installation Environmental Program director. "All the money earned through recycling goes back into the base."

NSA Bahrain generates approximately 3,000 tons of garbage every year. Through the QRP, nearly 1,000 tons of that solid waste is recycled. A short walk around base reveals numerous recycling bins for paper, aluminum and plastic, but QRP also recycles cardboard, batteries, plastic bags, scrap steel and even printer cartridges!

"My goal is to make recycling easier for everyone and increase the volume of recycled material," said Smith. "Everyone benefits from the program."

The recycling efforts on board NSA reflect the Navy's mission of adopting energy efficient measures and increasing operational capability.

"We have a strong desire to be in an environmentally responsible force," said Capt. Cory Howes, commanding officer of NSA Bahrain. "There's a lot that can be done by the Navy as an organization, but individuals can make an impact with their personal decisions as well."

No matter how many programs are put in place to encourage recycling, the end result depends on participation of people in the community. The Environmental Department strives to recycle 50 percent of the solid waste received, but they need help in accomplishing that goal.

"There's a lot that can be done by the Navy, as well as individuals," said Howes. "In terms of the environment, we as individuals can make more responsible decisions."

A full list of recyclable items is available by calling the Environmental Department at 439-4603.

During Earth Week, more than 150 volunteers contributed to the efforts, collecting 25,360 pounds of trash, approximately 60 percent of which was recyclable. NSA Bahrain emphasizes recycling and conservation all year long.

For more news from Naval Support Activity Bahrain, visit http://www.navy.mil/.