Arthur Fink promoted to assistant director

We are happy to announce that Arthur Fink recently accepted the position of assistant director at PPI. For more than six years, Fink has been a pollution prevention specialist and will continue some of that work as he takes on additional leadership responsibilities. 

“PPI has an amazing and talented team of professionals,” Fink said. “As assistant director, I'm excited to do what I can to assist PPI staff in continuing their excellence in the areas of pollution prevention and environmental compliance."

Congrats, Arthur!

Secure your spot in the PPI summer internship program 

The PPI summer internship program is still accepting host company applications, but spots are filling up quickly. This is your chance to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to your projects. Don't miss out – apply now to ensure your participation.

Not ready to commit to a full-time intern? Consider our Circuit Rider (CR) intern option instead. These interns are a great fit for those who need assistance with smaller-scale projects aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and reducing operational costs. CR interns will dedicate 1-2 days at your site, focusing on targeted initiatives that make a difference. It's an excellent opportunity for businesses exploring internships for the first time or those with specific, short-term needs.

For more information or to secure your spot, email Cris Brazil, program lead. We're here to support you in making this summer productive and impactful. Act now to guarantee your participation!

Featured case summary

Great Plains Manufacturing is a Salina-based company specializing in agricultural and landscape equipment. Great Plains partnered with PPI to identify, prevent and eliminate sources of pollution and energy waste at its manufacturing plants. To achieve this goal, the interns sought to change the materials, processes and technologies used in the company’s manufacturing plants.

Read the full case summary >

Why are EPA environmental justice policies important to Kansas industries?

EPA defines environmental justice, or EJ, as “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” These policies are important to Kansas industries and PPI recently created a new EJ page on its website, which contains a variety of information and resources, including how pollution prevention supports EJ, EPA’s national enforcement and compliance initiative, and how you can find out if your business is located in an EJ area. 

Visit sbeap.org/environmental-justice to view the new page, and if you have any questions or need assistance with EJ mapping, call 800-578-8898 or email ksu-ppi@k-state.edu.

Compliance corner - universal waste

Kansas hazardous waste generators can manage four types of hazardous waste as universal waste: metal-containing batteries, mercury-containing equipment, certain pesticides and spent lamps. 

What’s the difference between universal and hazardous waste? Universal waste management requirements are much more streamlined than hazardous waste requirements, and universal wastes must be recycled. As a result, universal waste “disposal” is cheaper, easier and better for the planet. KDHE BWM details universal waste management in two technical guidance documents: HW-2001-G1, “Requirements for Handlers of Universal Waste,” and HW-1995-G1, “Spent Fluorescent Lamps Containing Mercury.” You can find these documents here.