Schools Chart Pollution Fight

.The Ann Arbor Public Schools may become the first public school district in the nation to initiate an "Environmental Impact Program," according to a report presented to the Board of Education meeting last night. The report given by Ralph LaJeunesse, director of operations, focused on what actions have been undertaken to reduce adverse effects of various school activities on the environment. Board trustees praised both LaJeunesse and Dr. Spencer Havlick of the School of Natural Resources for their research and assessments made in formulating the 59-page report. Several procedures have already been instituted such as changing the type of fertilizer at several schools. The use of herbicides is being reduced and also the applications of salt. LaJeunesse also told the board that the purchasing department is purchasing non-pollutant cleaning agents, and compactors instead of incinerators are being installed in new schools. Recommendations to be implemented as soon as possible include the I ment by the Science and Art Departments a procedure to dispose of chemicals and metal base paint, utilizing the special incineration facilities of the University; and evaluating the present tuneup procedures for all school vehicles. The report also recommended that the present procedures to report defective lockers be reviewed, and arrangements for the disposal of sawdust be made. Adequate trash containers on all school grounds, with provisión for adequate collection were also included in the immediate recommendations. Other recommendations to those having primary responsibilities were to instruct the director of the parking project to park cars on ' non-grassy areas, for principáis to address themselves to the noise problem of students in the halls during class time and for Pioneer High School to establish a group to recommend changes in the pond near the school. It was suggested in the report that a "Keep Your Schools Clean" campaign also be instituted at all schools on a contining basis. ,. .. - f i i tu SKJ Long range goals in the report, which was informally accepted at last night's briefing session, included the installation of carpeting in areas of schools that produce most noise, installation of compactors in all schools and developing educátional programs at all schools aimed at reduction of pollution. The report eonsisted of a review of selected activities in the school system which have potentially detrimental effects on the local environment. The major analysis site which served as a pilot case for the study was Pioneer Highj School and the affiliated system-widel laundry and transportation facilities. I - - - - - -