Fisher BioServices continues to make every effort to go green.  We are using less and adopting environmentally friendly products wherever possible.  For instance: 

Recycling

All our facilities recycle paper, cardboard, cans, glass, plastic bottles, and shipping pallets.  Conversely, we buy recycled products, including paper towels, bath tissue, copy paper, trash bags, and others when available.  We reuse our specialized shippers multiple times for economic as well as environmental benefits.  We even recycle mechanical equipment, including freezers, to the extent possible.

Our recycling program includes spent toner cartridges, old computers, monitors, and other IT-related items.  We work with ReCellular to reuse company cell phones in the “Cell Phones for Soldiers Program” and victims of domestic violence.

Waste Reduction and Pollution Prevention

Whenever possible, we reuse utensils, cups, and glasses over disposable supplies.  We actively promote a policy of ALARA (“as low as reasonably achievable”).  Where appropriate, we replaced disposable protective clothing with reusable laboratory coats and aprons.

Our IT system minimizes repeated printings and the need for hard copy, including our pay stubs.  We encourage clients to do business through our online portal to eliminate paper transactions. 

Hazardous Wastes

A few of our sites generate hazardous or special medical waste.  These sites have a special program to reduce the amount generated, including procedures to minimize spills, not mixing hazardous with nonhazardous waste, and using the least amount possible.  We substitute “green” or less hazardous practices where possible, such as using “green certified” cleaning agents and a non-flammable, more eco-friendly solvent in place of isopropanol.  We have specially filtered HVAC systems, biosafety cabinets, and other air handling systems to prevent the release of potential pollutants. 

Conservation

We minimize electricity use off hours and adhere to a strict preventive maintenance schedule for high equipment efficiency.  We have replaced aging equipment with energy efficient units.  Our cleaning crews work during day-time business hours rather than at night.