Written by: Michelle DeFayette

Did you know more than 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year, half of which is designed to be used only once? As a result, our planet is covered in plastic and other waste. This year, UNEP is shining a light on plastic pollution through the World Environment Day campaign to #BeatPlasticPollution. Everyone can play a part by remembering that Environment Day is every day! Whether big or small, there are many ways to appreciate and protect our environment. 

EnCompass is always looking for ways to reduce waste and promote sustainability. As we have been preparing for our upcoming move to an exciting, new office space, we have taken the mantra “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” to heart. Our Office Relocation Team, supported by staff from across the company, has had one overriding goal: “Leave nothing in the landfill!” To this end, they have been focusing efforts on recycling materials and giving back to the Montgomery County, Maryland, community where our headquarters is located. 

We donated four large boxes of books to Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, a nonprofit that supports Montgomery County Public Libraries and promotes lifelong learning by providing libraries with supplemental funding, programs, and materials and equipment to augment public funding. 

Our extra office supplies, including paper, flip charts, markers, and highlighters, went to a local elementary school, where students can use them for art projects.  

We also recycled EnCompass’ old phone system at a local Best Buy store. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, tech recycling and refurbishment can help reduce pollution and energy consumption. 

In planning for our move, we have worked with our architect to design and build our new suite to green building standards by incorporating motion-activated lights and other recommended features, and by purchasing gently used furniture, etc. We are also excited to participate in our new building’s composting program and to continue looking for ways to support our environment.  

If you are also interested in getting involved, you can find ideas in UNEP’s #BeatPlasticPollution Practical Guide. Let’s continue to do all we can in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our communities to be good stewards of our environment and help ensure a better, brighter, and healthier tomorrow. 

Happy World Environment Day!