Evergreen Hospital Medical Center, which serves the Bothell and Kirkland areas, has been named A Best Workplace for Recycling and Waste Reduction for 2009 by the King County Solid Waste Division. Evergreen is one of 65 businesses in King County to earn the distinction in recognition of a strong internal recycling program and a commitment to reduce the waste the hospital produces.

In 2008, Jim Overton, a pediatric nurse, and other employee volunteers formed a Green Team to find ways to increase the hospital’s recycling efforts. Overton began by convincing the hospital to switch to an IV tubing that didn’t leach harmful chemicals. Since the Green Team began, employees and administration have increased their recycling efforts. They recycle batteries, collect leftover medical supplies for use in developing countries, and have changed to more energy efficient light bulbs. Earlier this year, they held the hospital’s first Earth Day and Recycling Fair.

“King County is pleased to see the list of Best Workplaces for Recycling and Waste reduction grow each year,” said Sharon Aller, the manager of the campaign. “Organizations like Evergreen demonstrate the value of creative approaches to recycling and reducing waste.”

King County releases the Best Workplaces for Recycling & Waste Reduction list annually to recognize the top recyclers and waste reducers and to motivate other businesses to improve recycling programs.