WASHINGTON COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

The Washington County Environmental Center, completed in 2009, is a 28,000-square-foot facility designed to support the county’s household hazardous waste collection program, which plays a crucial role in protecting the environment by safely disposing of materials that could otherwise pose risks to local ecosystems. The facility not only provides an efficient collection and sorting operation but also serves as an educational hub for the community, offering valuable resources to help residents understand and reduce their environmental impact.

At the core of the facility is a large warehouse area, specifically designed for sorting, packaging, and storing the hazardous materials collected from the public. The warehouse is equipped to handle a wide variety of waste types, including paints, chemicals, electronics, and other items that require specialized disposal. This efficient sorting process ensures that each type of material is directed to the proper contractor or company for safe and responsible disposal or recycling.

One of the standout features of the Washington County Environmental Center is its multi-lane drive-through system, designed to streamline the drop-off process for residents. With multiple lanes, the facility can handle a high volume of vehicles simultaneously, significantly reducing wait times and making it convenient for residents to safely dispose of their hazardous waste. The layout emphasizes quick, efficient service while maintaining a strong focus on safety.

In addition to its waste-handling operations, the Environmental Center has a public-facing component that encourages education and sustainability. The facility includes a product reuse room, where residents can pick up items like paint or cleaning supplies that have been dropped off but are still in good condition for reuse. This reuse program reduces waste and provides an added benefit to the community.

The public education resources are a key aspect of the center’s mission. Through engaging display areas, tours, and scheduled events, such as composting and rain barrel demonstrations, the facility educates residents on environmentally friendly practices. These educational initiatives empower the public to take action to reduce their environmental footprint and encourage sustainable habits in the community.

The Washington County Environmental Center also received national recognition for its design, winning the 2012 Copper in Architecture Award from the Copper Development Association. The award highlights the facility's thoughtful integration of copper, not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its sustainable and durable properties. Copper was used extensively in the building’s exterior design, contributing to the center’s modern yet environmentally conscious architectural approach.

This combination of efficient operations, community engagement, and environmental education makes the Washington County Environmental Center a model facility for household hazardous waste management and public sustainability efforts.