~DEP gearing up for Pollution Prevention Week 2009, September 21-27~

TALLAHASSEE— The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is kicking off its first ever green tip contest today in preparation for National Pollution Prevention (P2) Week 2009, September 21-27. The contest allows participants to submit their favorite green tip to DEP for the chance to win a free green cleaning kit and have their tip featured on DEP’s newly redesigned green Web site.

“Our goal is to get Floridians thinking about the simple things they can do during P2 Week, and throughout the year, to stop pollution at its source and become more environmentally conscientious,” said DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives, Deas Bohn. “P2 Week is a great time to evaluate areas where being green can play a greater role in an individual or business’ daily routine, be it through energy and water conservation, or implementation of a green cleaning program.”

The contest is open to the public, and the winning tip will receive a free green cleaning kit, which includes two microfiber cloths, a reusable spray bottle and cleaning bucket, baking soda, vinegar, conservation information sheet and green cleaning recipe card – a total retail value of approximately $20.

To enter, participants should submit an original green tip, no more than 200 words, via email to DEP at Green.Tip.Contest@dep.state.fl.us. Entries will be accepted until October 31, 2009 and a winner will be announced on Friday, November 6, 2009. Some specific guidelines apply and entries are limited to one per email address. Additional information is available at www.dep.state.fl.us/green/tips/contest.htm.

Along with the green tip contest, DEP unveiled an improved green Web site today, which offers resources for incorporating sustainability and pollution prevention practices into any lifestyle or business practice. Highlights of the Web site include:

• ‘Do-it-yourself’ green cleaning recipes and tips.
• Green tips galore for travel, boating, meetings, schools, business and more.
• Event details and announcements.
• News and information pertaining to DEP’s Sustainable Initiative Programs.

National P2 Week is an annual education event that occurs the third full week of September. Florida’s theme for this year’s P2 Week is ‘Greening Florida’s Future’ and is focused on water conservation, energy efficiency and green cleaning methods. DEP will also be distributing FREE conservation kits (while supplies last) at certain Vitamin Shoppe and The Fresh Market locations statewide during P2 Week. The conservation kits include two compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL), two low-flow sink aerators, two microfiber cloths, a conservation information sheet and green cleaning recipe card.  Participating locations can be found at www.dep.state.fl.us/green/p2week.htm.

P2 Week is administered by DEP’s Office of Sustainable Initiatives, which is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment. The Clean Marina Program, the Florida Green Lodging Program and the Clean Vessel Act Grant Program. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations.

To enter DEP’s green tip contest, learn more about DEP’s Sustainable Initiatives or view the improved green Web site, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/green/.