Danville State Hospital wins state award for sustainability

Danville, Pa. — Danville State Hospital was recently awarded the first-ever sustainability award by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

The award is presented to businesses who are enacting environmental efforts by changing behaviors, activities, and programs that encourage environmental sustainability. These practices can include anything that reduces carbon footprints, energy use, or improves air and water quality.

The Danville State Hospital planted 1,600 trees and shrubs and allowed 16 acres of land to be reclaimed by the natural forest. The hospital also diverted around 970,000 pounds of trash from local landfills by implementing new recycling and waste management solutions and creating a food waste composting plan to create potting soil. They also redirected 10% of the hospital’s stormwater runoff away from Danville and the rest of the Commonwealth’s waterways by 10%.

"This work promotes multiple ways of healing, from cleaner air and water to better mental health and longevity. Ensuring that this community stays beautiful and green for decades to come is a very important form of preventive care for all of us." said Dr. Val Arkoosh, Department of Human Services secretary during the award presentation.

The Danville State Hospital, located at 50 Kirkbride Dr., is a mental health facility operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare.