Environmental Policy and Statement of Principles
Preamble
Our growing knowledge of our place in the universe and of the earth's
limited resources, their inequitable distribution to the world's poor, and
the widespread destruction of the environment compels the Sisters of Charity
of Saint Elizabeth to respect and heal the earth, live sustainably and to
support just, sustainable social and economic development in the world.
Policy
In accordance with our call to mend and to preserve the integrity of
creation by the right use of natural resources, it will be the policy of the
Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth to make every effort to conduct its
activities as responsible stewards of the environment, while continuing to
meet the needs of those whom we serve.
The Congregation is committed to seek new and better ways to meet
environmental challenges and minimize waste and pollution through
conservation, recycling, reduction and reuse procurement programs. It is its
policy to manage its operations in a manner demonstrably protective of human
health and the environment and the preservation and enhancement of green
space.
Principles
To carry out this policy, the Congregation will use these principles to make
consistent, measurable progress in its effort to respect and protect the
earth for all peoples and future generations.
| 1. |
We will reduce and make continual progress toward eliminating the release of any substance that may cause environmental damage to the air, water, or the earth, or persons. |
| 2. |
We will make sustainable use of renewable natural resources. We will conserve nonrenewable natural resources through efficient use and careful planning. |
| 3. |
We will reduce and where possible eliminate waste through source reduction and recycling. All waste will be handled and disposed of through safe and responsible methods. |
| 4. |
We will conserve energy and improve the energy efficiency of our internal operations. We will make every effort to use environmentally safe and sustainable energy sources. |
| 5. |
We will strive to minimize the environmental, health and safety risks to our employees and the communities in which we operate through safe technologies, facilities and operating procedures, and by being prepared for emergencies. |
| 6. |
We will reduce and where possible eliminate the use of products that cause environmental damage or health or safety hazards. |
| 7. | We will make property decisions with ecological consciousness |
| 8. |
We will conduct education and training programs in implementing these principles. We will conduct an annual self-evaluation of our progress in implementing our environmental policy. |
April 6, 2004
Box 476, Convent Station, NJ 07961 973-290-5345
