HR STORM Green Sense Guide

THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
OR
THE ENVIRONMENT OF BUSINESS

All too often, we hear of businesses and industries that have been blamed for causing environmental problems. When businesses are found at fault, it can dramatically affect their profit and productivity as well as the public's perception of their products or services.

Consumers expect that the products they buy to be good for the environment. They also expect the businesses and industries that develop, produce, market and distribute those products or services to be environmentally friendly.

A successful business or industry needs to be concerned about the environmental impacts of their operations. The Hampton Roads "Green Guide" offers ideas and solutions to common environmental issues that will help your business be a good steward of the earth we live, the water we drink and the air we breath.


WHY IS STORMWATER IMPORTANT

The federal government has determined that stormwater runoff is the leading cause of water pollution in the nation. When it rains or snows, stormwater collects many types of hazardous materials that flow directly into area lakes and streams. Stormwater is not treated. Oils, chemicals, fertilizers, litter and waste in stormwater can cause major problems in waterways. The effects may vary, however research has shown that runoff pollution affects drinking water supplies, recreation, fisheries and wildlife.

Stormwater pollution results from a wide variety of activities. Each of us can contribute to the problem, sometimes without even realizing it. You can help reduce pollution by remembering to keep potential pollutants away from storm drains.

The business and industry community can make a big impact on reducing stormwater pollution. Most problems with stormwater begin with impervious surfaces. Large building, roads, parking lots and walkways prevent stormwater from being absorbed into the ground where it is naturally filtered by the soil. Instead, stormwater is allowed to flow unimpeded and pick up a toxic mix of dirt, debris and chemicals that can often travel untreated directly into waterways. Research has shown that stormwater runoff has seriously contributed to the polluting of many of our lakes, rivers and bays; and since 1992 the federal government has required municipalities to manage stormwater runoff and control the amount of pollutants released in waterways.

There are, however, many ways to minimize the effects of stormwater pollution and make your business a proactive contributor to a clean and safe environment. By incorporating innovative ideas and thinking to your operations and facilities, you can help to reduce pollution and improve your public image.


Activities That Pollute Stormwater
Leading sources of stormwater pollution are:

· Refueling, engine repair, equipment washing, and painting activities, especially when these activities occur outdoors or when wastewater is released outside.

· Outdoor vehicle, equipment, and material storage that exposes spilled, leaked, and overflowing fluids and chemicals to rain and stormwater runoff.

· Outdoor cleaning and maintenance activities like power washing, sandblasting, and car washing that produce large volumes of wastewater.

· Construction activities that excavate land, exposing loose dirt and sand.

· Farming and agricultural activities that add fertilizer, pesticide, nutrient, and sediment pollutants to the watershed.

· Roads, parking lots, and other paved surfaces where fluids have leaked, hazardous materials have spilled, or litter, particles, and sediments have accumulated.

· Commercial properties and residential lawns where fertilizers and pesticides are used.

· Landfills, trash storage areas, and waste handling and disposal activities when improperly managed.

· Poorly maintained, corroded, or damaged drums and machinery.

· Uncovered and improperly maintained storage areas and dumpsters.

Wastes, residues, and by-products from these activities enter storm drains and flow into streams, creeks, and tributaries, harming fish and other aquatic life.

Indicators of Stormwater Pollution
The following are indicators of possible stormwater pollution:

· An oil sheen on the water's surface.
· Stains on and around the ground and storm drains.
· Unusual discoloration of grass, plants, and vegetation.
· Distressed (dead or dying) vegetation and plants.
· Dead or dying animal life.
· A thick layer of algae on a water body.

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