The Naval Air Systems Command’s (NAVAIR) Environmental Programs Department, known as AIR 1.6, was recognized Feb. 21 with a 2012 Chief of Naval Operations Environmental award for developing an acquisition tool that helps users track and comply with environmental requirements.
The team, which is organized under NAVAIR’s Program Management organization, or AIR 1.0, won the Weapon System Acquisition, Small Program, Individual or Team category for developing the Programmatic Environment, Safety and Occupational Health Evaluation Document Authoring Tool, known as PESHE DAT.
Launched in 2007, the web-based tool standardizes NAVAIR’s Environmental Safety and Occupational Health (ESOH) risk-assessment process and development of PESHE documents. Modules help acquisition managers and leaders ensure environmental requirements are properly assessed and managed at milestone events. Additionally, hazardous materials and waste are tracked and managed as ESOH risks as well as the development of a sound National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) strategy.
Herman Varmall, who leads the Environmental Programs Office, said the award “shows NAVAIR/AIR-1.6 is leading the way in environmental acquisition planning and integration. The techniques and approaches being implemented in NAVAIR are not unique to us. We expect other [systems commands] to follow suit — develop a similar environmental business model, such as NAVAIR’s to support their program managers.”
The CNO Environmental Awards recognize Navy ships, installations and people for outstanding performance in promoting environmental stewardship. For fiscal 2012, 59 nominations from commands around the world were received in 10 award categories. Thirty winners were selected at the CNO level of competition. All CNO winners will advance to the secretary of the Navy competition level.
In a message congratulating the winners, Vice Adm. Philip Cullom, deputy chief of naval operations for Fleet Readiness and Logistics, said “Your dedication to environmental stewardship is commendable and your actions exemplify the Navy’s commitment to protecting and preserving the environment.”
