Micro-reactor pilot program reaches major milestone

Oklo Inc. will site, design, construct, own and operate a micro-reactor facility licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.

AFCEC plays vital role in DAF climate plan initiatives

AFCEC has a significant role in climate change initiatives intended to enhance resiliency at Air Force installations by addressing the risks severe weather poses to infrastructure, operational capabilities and readiness as outlined in the DAF Climate Campaign Plan.

Eglin AFB fish removed from endangered species list

The Okaloosa darter is a two-inch, perch-like fish unique and critical to the balance of six clear stream systems within Eglin and draining into two Choctawhatchee Bay bayous in Walton and Okaloosa counties in northwest Florida.

Tiny fish swims off the endangered species list

The Okaloosa darter, a two-inch perch-like fish found only in the streams at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, was removed from the federal list of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife.

Department of the Air Force rolls out Climate Campaign Plan

The Climate Campaign Plan is the implementation portion of the Climate Action Plan and breaks down the strategy through specific and measurable objectives and key results.

Hanscom AFB leaders invest in energy resiliency

Installation officials are demonstrating their commitment to bolster Hanscom Air Force Base’s energy resiliency and efficiency through innovative pilot programs, partnerships and prioritizing energy-related projects.

Earth Day 2023: Invest in our planet, protect our future

In celebration of Earth Day and in alignment with this year’s theme, “Invest in our Planet, Protect our Future,” the Department of the Air Force highlights how it works to preserve natural habitats and ensure resilient infrastructure, operations, and communities.

Four Department of the Air Force Installations win 2023 SecDEF Environmental Awards

Since 1962, installations across the Department of Defense have been recognized by these awards for their accomplishments in innovative and cost-effective environmental management that support mission readiness.

SecAF Kendall visits Maui Space Surveillance Complex fuel spill

The Secretary of the Air Force met with representatives from local advocacy groups to discuss the Air Force's commitment to addressing a recent fuel leak at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex.

Air Force launches Energy-as-a-Service pilot program at Hanscom AFB

The Department of the Air Force kicked off a $10 million next-generation energy performance contract that will deliver resilient and reliable energy at Hanscom Air Force Base Feb. 14.

Largest private-public collaboration in DoD history reflects commitment to clean energy

The 412th Test Wing unveiled a new solar facility on the northwest corner of Edwards Air Force Base, Feb. 2. The facility, built in collaboration with Terra-Gen LLC, is a result of the Edwards Solar Enhance Use Lease Project.

AEDC team members assist with bat research

On a cold, drizzly day in December, Arnold Air Force Base team members ventured into a wet, muddy cave to add to the data concerning white nose syndrome and tricolored bats.

Aerodynamic technologies for mobility aircraft promise high return on investment

As part of its effort to increase readiness and capability, the Air Force is working to introduce aerodynamic technologies on mobility aircraft to improve airflow, reduce maintenance issues, increase payload capability, and decrease fuel demand.

DAF already taking steps to meet Climate Action Plan goals

DAF installations are implementing innovative solutions and pilot programs to meet the goals outlined in the Climate Action Plan, bolstering mission readiness through installation energy resilience.

Department of the Air Force wins 3 federal energy, water management awards

The Department of Energy’s Federal Energy Management Program recognized three Department of the Air Force teams and multiple individuals with 2022 Federal Energy and Water Management Awards.

Department of the Air Force rolls out plan addressing climate change

The Department of the Air Force released its Climate Action Plan, which defines how it will preserve operational capability, increase resiliency, and do its part to help mitigate future climate impacts.

Department of the Air Force completes USSPACECOM draft environmental assessment

The Department of the Air Force has completed the draft environmental assessment of the preferred alternative and other five reasonable alternatives for U.S. Space Command headquarters as required by the National Environmental Policy Act.

DoD announces 2022 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards winners

Since 1962, installations across the Department of Defense have been recognized for their outstanding accomplishments in innovative and cost-effective environmental management strategies that successfully support mission readiness.

Former Griffiss AFB wins national excellence award for site reuse

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized former Griffiss Air Force Base, New York, Dec. 8, as a 2021 Federal Facility Excellence in Site Reuse winner.

Air Force’s first Energy Assurance Lease signed at Tyndall AFB

Under the terms of the agreement, during normal grid operations, power from the microgrid will support GPC’s regular retail customers, including Tyndall AFB. During grid outages, the Air Force will have first right of refusal to backup power for support of three mission-critical facilities via

Native Seed Program grows DAF readiness

The Department of the Air Force Native Seed Program, part of the National Seed Strategy, is a Bureau of Land Management initiative that brings together 12 federal agencies and more than 300 non-federal partners to champion ecological restoration nationwide.

Nellis AFB reduces greenhouse gas emission through solar energy

Nellis Solar Array 1 saves Nellis AFB $1 million in electricity annually and reduces its yearly greenhouse gas emissions by 24,000 tons. NSA 1 was built in 2007 and covers 140 acres, which includes a previous landfill of 33 acres and provides 14.2 megawatts of power.

The Air Force partners with Twelve, proves it’s possible to make jet fuel out of thin air

Air Force Operational Energy endorsed the carbon transformation company Twelve to launch a pilot program to demonstrate that their proprietary technology could convert CO2 into operationally viable aviation fuel called E-Jet®.

Department of the Air Force recognizes Energy Awareness Month

Energy Awareness Month gives the Department of the Air Force the opportunity every October to look at the critical role energy plays in its combat capabilities and readiness.

Air Force BRAC program nears transfer milestones

Between now and the end of 2022, if all goes according to plan, the Air Force will transfer these parcels of land to local communities and close the chapter on the storied histories of Galena Forward Operating Location, Alaska, and Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois.

Department of the Air Force Recognizes Energy Awareness Month

The theme for Energy Awareness Month 2020 is “Energy Able, Mission Capable.”

Tinker AFB completes construction for Energy Savings Performance Contract project

This certification provides sustained program structure and imposes a rigorous international energy management standard centered around continual improvement, enhancing energy, controlling costs, operations and maintenance savings, and safety.

Emission inspection system saves money, air quality

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center launched the Employee-vehicle Certification and Reporting System, or ECARS, in 2013, and has since rolled the software out to 62 installations.

Air Force environmental programs help endangered species thrive

Through a combination of programs and partnerships with installations and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Air Force Civil Engineer Center is helping some endangered species make a comeback.

Pilot study aims to save money, protect environment with fewer oil changes

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center’s Environmental Quality Technical Support Branch is currently leading a pilot study that evaluates the use of a standardized oil testing service to provide enhanced analytics and, ideally, allow for longer oil use.

Deforestation on Tyndall AFB leads to ecosystem restoration

This is a partnership between Air Force service members, Department of Defense contracted employees and representatives of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Air Force, USFWS partner to protect natural, cultural resources

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center and USFWS kicked off a joint Conservation Law Enforcement Partnership, or CLEP, this fall, placing six USFWS conservation law enforcement officers, or CLEOs, across five Air Force installations. These officers are responsible for preserving Air Force natural and

Air Force tests plasma reactor to degrade, destroy synthetic chemical compounds in groundwater

Clarkson and GSI Environmental were awarded this research project to demonstrate the effectiveness of a plasma reactor for the treatment of water containing PFOS and PFOA. Wright-Patterson AFB was the installation chosen for the field demonstration.

Joint Base MDL, US Fish & Wildlife Service partner to protect conservation areas

For the first time, USFWS and the 787th Civil Engineer Squadron will work hand-in-hand to protect and conserve the local and U.S. government land where fish and wildlife reside.

Environmentally friendly treadmills save money, energy for 786th FSS

Treadmills recently purchased by the 786th Force Support Squadron require no energy to function and as an individual runs on the treadmill, the machine actually transmits energy back into the power grid.

Air Force recognizes Energy Action Month 2019

During Energy Action Month, the Air Force will emphasize the need for smart energy solutions and inform Airmen, Air Force senior leaders, policy makers and aligned organizations about what they can do to effectively distribute, generate and manage resilient and reliable energy across the enterprise.

Ascension Island's hydroponics lab is revitalizing life on the volcanic island

Supplies, including food, are flown to the island because Ascension’s water cycle, soil and topography make it very difficult for anything to grow on the island – what does grow, you cannot or would not want to eat, until recently. Introducing Ascension Island’s own personal ‘garden’, the

Air Force workshop focuses on installation support, environmental stewardship

More than 400 military members and civilians were on hand at the 2019 Air Force Environmental Workshop to focus on the role of environmental restoration and protection in ensuring installations are mission ready. Hosted by AFCEC’s Environmental Management Directorate, a primary subordinate unit of

Hill AFB wins DOE award for energy efficiency

The annual award recognizes outstanding contributions in the areas of energy efficiency, water conservation and the use of renewable energy technologies at federal facilities.

Edwards AFB sends earthquake response to nearby base

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the first earthquake struck at 10:33 a.m. July 4 with a 6.4 magnitude and is now considered a foreshock. A second quake shook the area the following day at 8:20 p.m. with a stronger 7.1 magnitude. Estimated economic losses of what the USGS now calls the

Public health Airmen engage civilian partners during readiness training

The service members met with representatives from the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Commission to view operations at a livestock auction facility and a dairy farm.

Building a weather-ready nation

The purpose of the tour is to help create a weather-ready nation by raising awareness for the upcoming hurricane season occurring June 1 – Nov. 30, with an emphasis this year on raising awareness about inland flooding.

Travis AFB supports Cyclone Idai relief efforts

Two C-17 Globemaster III crews assigned to the 21st Airlift Squadron from Travis Air Force Base arrived in Djibouti April 5 to aid Cyclone Idai relief efforts.

Offutt AFB personnel re-enter flooded buildings, work together to restore readiness

Offutt Air Force Base personnel have regained access to buildings and facilities to begin assessing damage and recovering items which were underwater less than a week ago due to record flooding along the Missouri River.

Offutt stands-up Emergency Family Assistance Center

The Offutt Air Force Base Airman and Family Readiness Center is scheduled to host an Emergency Family Assistance Center March 21 and 22 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Heightened focus on the Arctic brings attention, challenges to the Air Force

There’s no mystery – or surprise – surrounding the Arctic’s strategic importance, a vast and foreboding expanse where the United States has maintained a resolute and unblinking presence for decades.

AMC provides support in aftermath of Hurricane Michael

Air Mobility Command is prepared to support victims affected by Hurricane Michael, which hit landfall in parts of Florida, Georgia and Alabama on Oct. 10.

Protect the Power to Enhance Readiness and Resilience During Energy Action Month

October is Energy Action Month and to Air Force Energy it represents an opportunity to highlight the mission critical importance of energy and water resources and to encourage the smart energy and water use and management for our installations, ground vehicles, and aircraft.

Seymour Johnson AFB repositions aircraft in preparation for Hurricane Florence

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base repositioned approximately 60 F-15E Strike Eagles from the 4th Fighter Wing and six KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft from the 916th Air Refueling Wing Sept. 12, 2018, to Barksdale AFB, Louisiana.

Alaska ANG mobilizes in advance of Hurricane Florence

Thirty-six Alaska Air National Guardsmen from the 176th Wing, and approximately three short tons of Alaska Air Guard equipment, departed Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Sept. 12 to assist with emergency response efforts for Hurricane Florence.

JB Charleston C-17s arrive at Scott AFB following hurricane evacuation

916th ARW aircraft evacuate ahead of Hurricane Florence

916th ARW KC-135Rs land at Barksdale Air Force Base fleeing pending hurricane.

Hurricane Hunters fly Florence, conduct search and rescue

Members of the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron assisted the U.S. Coast Guard with a search and rescue mission Sept. 11, locating a white 41-foot Bali sailing catamaran after completing their mission for Hurricane Florence.The vessel was making a trans-Atlantic voyage

Hurricane Hunters fly Hurricane Lane as storm targets Hawaiian Islands

The Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters are continuing to monitor Hurricane Lane which is projected to hit the main Hawaiian Islands the afternoon of Aug. 23. The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squdron, based out of Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, began flying into Hurricane Lane out of the

USDA net system reduces aviation bird strikes

The U.S. Department of Agriculture works with safety teams around the Air Force to limit the presence of birds on and around airfields to protect aircraft from bird strikes, an issue that costs the Air Force millions of dollars every year in damages.

MAFFS: Colorado reservists activated to support fire suppression efforts in Western U.S.

Air Force reservists and one Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System-equipped C-130 Hercules aircraft from the 302nd Airlift Wing deployed to California August 8.

Air Force scientists study artificial silk for body armor, parachutes

Inspired by the qualities of fibers found in nature, scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory and Purdue University are experimenting to develop a functional fiber that can be woven into sizeable, flexible fabrics using existing textile manufacturing methods.

Air Force awards first ESPC of 2018

Recently, the Defense Logistics Agency awarded a $42 million energy savings performance contract,or ESPC, to be executed and maintained by Energy Systems Group, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. This represents the Air Force’s first such awarded contract of 2018.

Women of Weather: Hurricane Hunters make a difference

Those goals became reality for Maj. Ashley Lundry, an aerial reconnaissance weather officer, and Maj. Devon Meister, a pilot, both members of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, referred to as the Hurricane Hunters, a unit in the 403rd Wing at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.

Supercomputing weather with ‘Thor’

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Hanscom Air Force Base acquired a supercomputer that is the latest step in a long-running weather prediction arms race.

AF National Museum building earns environmental, energy award

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force announced its fourth building has achieved the rare distinction of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification as determined by the U.S. Green Building Council during a ceremony Aug. 3, 2017.

Largest military solar energy project in Northeast breaks ground on JB MDL

Miranda A.A. Ballentine, the assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations, environment and energy, and Brig. Gen. Michael Cunniff, the adjutant general of New Jersey, helped break ground on a 98-acre solar farm at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Dec. 21.The 16.5-megawatt solar energy

AFRL discovering what’s “bugging” military aircraft

As any aircraft maintainer can attest, corrosion is a major factor affecting the overall health of military aircraft. Anything from changing temperatures to environmental factors can precipitate corrosion. One major contributor, however, is often overlooked -- microbes.

Fueling the future: AF works to ‘home-grow’ biofuels for DOD, industry

A need to address increases in petroleum costs with an environmentally friendly fuel source has led to a new way of looking at production—and the Defense Production Act Title III Program Office, part of the Air Force Research Laboratory, is playing a critical role in commercializing this technology.

Hurricane Hunters gather forecast data on record-breaking blizzard

The Hurricane Hunters of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron flew a different kind of mission from Keesler Air Force Base Jan. 22 to gather data on the blizzard that hit the Eastern Seaboard.

AF earns 10 Federal Energy, Water Management Awards

Saving energy and money while also helping the environment earned the Air Force 10 Federal Energy and Water Management Awards -- the most received by any federal agency.

AF celebrates Earth Day by focusing on mission today, tomorrow

Air Force leaders are reminding Airmen to keep the mission in mind as the Air Force observes the 45th annual Earth Day April 22. The service has encouraged Airmen around the globe to focus on recycling efforts this year, in line with its 2015 theme, “Conserve Today – Secure Tomorrow.”

AF tests first all-electric vehicle fleet in California

Air Force officials unveiled the Department of Defense’s first non-tactical vehicle fleet, composed entirely of plug-in electric vehicles, at Los Angeles Air Force Base Nov. 14.

Air Force installations set standard in recycling industry year-round

At bases around the world, recycling center staffs work every day to find cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions to do the service's par

Poinsett Range: the environmental mission

The Poinsett Electronic Combat Range, previously called Poinsett Bombing Range, opened in 1952 to be used as a real-world training range for military personnel.

Mock bills show Keesler Airmen energy costs in user-friendly way

Keesler is bolstering its energy conservation campaign by sending statements to managers of metered facilities that detail monthly electrical and natural gas use for their building.

Energy Action Month spotlights Airmen impacting operations

October is Energy Action Month throughout the federal government and in the Air Force, Energy Action Month is the centerpiece of the “I am Air Force Energy” campaign dedicated to educating Airmen on ways they can maximize their energy efficiency and mission effectiveness.

DOD continues aid to combat western wildfires

Two Department of Defense C-130Hercules equipped with U.S. Forest Service Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems and under the command and control of U.S. Northern Command are assisting with wildfire suppression efforts in the Northwest, Great Basin, and elsewhere in the West at the request of the

Save the sea turtles: Airmen team with local university to conserve species

Airmen here have partnered with a scientific research team from the University of Guam, or UOG, to help make the base's beaches cleaner and greener -- with turtles -- by participating in the sea turtle monitoring, protection and educational outreach program on Guam.

Environmental teams answer ‘Call to Future’

As the Air Force takes a 30-year look ahead in the recently released strategy document, “America’s Air Force: A Call to the Future,” environmental teams are already helping ensure installations are prepared for operations in 2045 and beyond using the Environmental Management System.

Airmen continue support to wildfire battle

Two Defense Department C-130 Hercules equipped with U.S. Forest Service’s Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems and under the command and control of U.S. Northern Command are assisting with wildfire suppression efforts in the Northwest, the Great Basin, and elsewhere in the West at the request of

Hurricane Hunters fly into Tropical Storm Bertha

Aircrew members from the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron Hurricane Hunters have been flying data-gathering missions into Tropical Storm Bertha out of the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands since July 31.

From trash to treasure: Converting Academy waste into renewable energy

During August 2013, the Defense Department Environmental Security Technology Certification Program funded CDM Smith, a national engineering and construction firm, to test how the U.S. Air Force Academy can reduce energy use and cost at its wastewater treatment plant, and convert food waste from its

Scott AFB's utilities privatization garners national attention

The culmination of five years of water system improvements at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, has attracted the attention of the Partnership for Safe Water, an initiative developed by the Environmental Protection Agency and other water organizations to increase water quality.

Nellis AFB to add second large solar plant

The Air Force is set to outdo itself with another large solar project at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.

Earth Day: 'Conserve Today - Secure Tomorrow'

Every April 22, Air Force installations around the world observe Earth Day by taking actions to enhance sustainability and support the Air Force's Earth Day theme of "Conserve Today - Secure Tomorrow."

Two AF bases win 2014 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards

The Department of Defense announced April 21, that two Air Force installations were among the winners of the 2014 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards.

Environmental cleanup status now a click away

In the past, getting details on the environmental cleanup progress at an Air Force installation typically called for a drive to the base or local library to flip through pages of documentation. Today, with the help of a new online system, administrative record documents are now available

Department of Energy seeks award nominations

Each year the U.S. Department of Energy sponsors the Federal Energy and Water Management Awards. These awards honor individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the efficient use of energy and water in the federal government. The Air Force looks to stay on top, having won 21

Air Force focuses on sustainability for Earth Day 2014 observance

Each year Air Force installations around the world observe Earth Day on April 22 by taking actions to support the Air Force's Earth Day theme of "Conserve Today - Secure Tomorrow."This year, Air Force activities will focus on sustainability, referring to the capacity to continue the mission without

AF awards $15.5 million in scientific research grants

The Air Force Office of Scientific Research announced Jan. 24 that it will award approximately $15.5 million in grants to 42 scientists and engineers from 32 research institutions who submitted winning research proposals through the Air Force's Young Investigator Research Program, or YIP.

AF announces 2013 Design Award winners

The winners of the 2013 Air Force Design Awards were announced recently by Maj. Gen. Theresa Carter, the Air Force Civil Engineer chief of staff for logistics, installations and mission support.

Efficiency programs renew commitment to saving energy, reducing costs in Europe

Saving energy and reducing costs is something many people strive to do. When an energy bill exceeds $150 million, it becomes a necessity.

Civilian Airman wins key energy award

The Air Force's Energy Action Month is drawing to a close, but Laughlin continues to lead the way in energy efficiency and water conservation with the recent announcement that a Laughlin civilian won the 2013 Department of Energy Individual Federal Energy and Water Management Award.

Harvesting the wind at Cape Cod Air Force Station

It's not just the leaves that are changing at Cape Cod Air Force Station. The Air Force station is also changing the way it gets electricity as two new giant wind turbines are being installed at the 6th Space Warning Squadron.

Air Force, EPA and Florida sign agreement for Tyndall AFB cleanup

The Air Force, Environmental Protection Agency and State of Florida signed a federal facilities agreement Sept. 20 that will provide the framework within which the parties will manage any necessary action to continue to protect the community and the environment at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla.

EOD Airmen remove 35 tons of ordnance from range

Explosive ordnance disposal Airmen from the 366th Civil Engineering Squadron were joined by fellow EOD Airmen from nine different bases to perform the annual range clearance at Saylor Creek and Juniper Butte Range complexes, Idaho.Members from the 366th Fighter Wing and other units have spent the

A family affair: Former base now home to burrowing owl family

In the midst of a bustling environmental cleanup project at the former McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, Calif., a family of burrowing owls has carved out a serene existence on a small protected piece of land. Burrowing owls, which on average are slightly larger than the American Robin, are

Pope Field building 'green' control tower

Construction crews here are putting finishing touches on a new air traffic control tower with improved environmental controls and a smaller ecological footprint. Many of the tower's improvements stem from its "green" roots as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certified

Satellite program finds savings while providing critical imagery

An Air Force program at Hanscom Air Force Base that continually provides critical imagery to warfighters and first responders, is also reducing costs.Eagle Vision consists of five deployable satellite downlink stations that collect, process and distribute commercial satellite imagery in nearly real

DOD Announces 2013 REPI Buffer Program Challenge Award winners

Defense Department officials announced June 10 the selection of two winning partnership projects, in the states of Florida and Washington as part of its "Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Challenge." The REPI Challenge will provide projects at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., and

Cadet-designed trailer could power future austere deployments

A cadet capstone project designed to build upon cadets' research in 2012 could have broad-ranging applications from powering austere bases to supplementing stateside bases' power grids, instructors in the computer and electrical engineering department here said recently.The project, a solar- and

EPA recognizes Air Force renewable energy efforts

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Top 50 list of Green Power Partners released this month ranks the Air Force number one in the Department of Defense and number two in the federal government for its purchase and on-site production of green power. In 2012, the Air Force used 283 million

Airmen, EPA combine conservation efforts for Earth Day

 In commemoration of Earth Day, more than 150 volunteers participated in a coastal cleanup April 21 on Tarague Beach here.Earth Day is an international event that demonstrates the commitment and significant investment the United States and other countries have made toward environmental security.

AF earns top DOD environmental awards

Two Air Force units have been recognized as the best in the Department of Defense at being "green."The 673rd Air Base Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and the 78th Civil Engineer Group, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., were among the winners of the 2013 Secretary of Defense Environmental