Sustainable Solutions in the Pacific:
US Air Force Environmental Management

Mark Ingoglia, Chief, Pacific Air Forces Natural Infrastructure (Environmental) Branch

Abstract

Executive Order 13423 Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation management, directs all federal agencies including the Air Force to achieve aggressive, measurable environmental, conservation and energy goals. With 10 major installations (similar in scale to the University of Hawaii at Manoa) and over 100 smaller installations in Hawaii, Guam, Alaska, Korea, Japan and various islands and atolls, the Air Force has many challenges as it balances sustainability with the needs of its primary mission: national defense. Sustainability goals can actually help support the mission if properly implemented. Despite an annual budget of approximately $40M, resources are tight and risks must be prioritized. Controlling the spread of brown treesnakes, reducing hazardous waste generation, conserving and restoring ecological and cultural resources, and protecting the health and safety of people on and around Air Force installations all help support the Air Force mission. Management strategies and systems used by the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) will be reviewed. Examples of programs and initiatives will be shared with lessons learned, and an invitation to discuss and review ideas and experiences with those attending.

Mr Ingoglia is a UH graduate with 25 years of experience in environmental management. He has worked and taught at UH, the Hawaii State legislature, Department of Health, the Air Force in Hawaii and the Pentagon as well as serving on the boards of of non-profit environmental organizations.