In keeping with ZRT’s dedication to improving the hormonal health of humans, we are also taking steps toward improving the health of our planet through energy and resource conservation measures. In our saliva and blood spot labs, we practice minimal use of solvents — using only alcohol in our assay tests. Our assay tests also employ the use of enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technology rather than toxic radio-immunoassay (RIA). In environmental terms, this means zero radioactive waste is produced as a by-product of our testing. Since 2006, we have reduced plastics consumption used in our testing by half.
Recent installation of a new robotic arm not only transfers eight times as many samples at a time, it uses only half the plastic tips as our previous arm because it processes samples so much more efficiently. Plus, the tips used are considerably smaller and can now be sterilized for plastic recycling.
At the same time, we also recycle the plastic clamshell packaging that customers send back with their samples. These clamshells are made of the “good plastic,” known as PET-E, which, unlike PVC, is a recyclable material. Plus, the packing peanuts we use for shipping our kits and educational materials are made from natural corn and potato starch, making them 100 percent biodegradable.
Our Customer Education Department encourages providers to “go paperless” by accessing their patients’ results online, reducing both natural resource consumption and mailing costs.
Our Facilities Department has installed fluorescent fixtures throughout the building
for all lighting needs. In addition, our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC) system is operated by a direct digital control system, which programs equipment
operation and reduces energy consumption. When our HVAC units were installed in
2006, they conformed to the latest energy efficiency requirements. Not only that,
we use Sustainable Earth cleaning products, which meet high standards for environmental
safety.
ZRT employees are encouraged to recycle all cardboard, aluminum, plastic, and paper products used during work time. In addition, all paper supplies used in our restrooms and break rooms are made from recycled materials. And last but not least, we no longer supply employees with disposable eating utensils or dishes, encouraging them to use dishes and utensils that can be washed and reused.