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K-State Today

September 4, 2019

K-State intern program identifies big savings for Kansas industries

Submitted by Lynelle Ladd

The Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute Intern Program concluded its 14th year with five interns, four of which are K-State engineering students, and one engineering student from Benedictine College. The intern program links top-level engineering and environmental sciences students with host companies to research projects that reduce industrial emissions and wastes, and conserve natural resources.

The interns will present findings of their work on Sept. 13 at an event open to the public at 10 a.m. in 1139 Engineering Hall in the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering complex. A full agenda of the day's presentations will be available in September on the institute's event page or by calling 1-800-578-8898 for more information.

As of 2018, the following reductions reflect an aggregate for their host companies:

  • Electrical savings of 87 million kilowatt hours.
  • Natural gas usage reduced by 3 million therms.
  • Water reduced by 380 million gallons.
  • Solid waste reduced by 16,000 tons.
  • Cost savings of $14 million.
  • Reduction in 81,000 metric tons of CO2e.

Recruiting for the summer 2020 intern program is underway with host company applications due by Dec. 31, 2019, and student applications due by Jan. 31, 2020.

Students and professionals interested in learning pollution prevention strategies or in an internship are encouraged to enroll in CE-690 Top/ Industrial Environment Sustainability Practices, a one credit course offered on Jan. 15 and 16, 2020. For further information on the Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute Intern Program, interested persons can go to ksuppi.org/intern-program.