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The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is embracing sustainable technologies to enhance military performance and reduce environmental impact. The newly established Sustainable Technology Evaluation and Demonstration Program (STED) aims to test, evaluate, and validate sustainable technologies within military operational and training environments. David J. Asiello, the program’s director, highlights that STED involves warfighters, DOD civilians, personnel, and other federal agencies in testing and using these technologies.
This initiative demonstrates the DOD’s commitment to sustainability, improved efficiency, and cost reduction, while boosting the resilience of military systems.
Improving Performance with Domestic Materials
A critical aspect of the STED Program is evaluating whether these technologies enhance performance and reduce lifecycle costs. One of the program’s main goals is to increase the security of the military’s supply chain by relying on materials sourced domestically.
According to Asiello, these technologies don’t just enhance operational performance. They also protect resources such as air, land, water, and energy, which are vital for military installations and training. By reducing waste and safeguarding the environment, the STED Program contributes to the health and safety of the warfighter.
Field Testing: A Real-World Example
One of STED’s significant accomplishments was the evaluation of a bio-based cleaner, lubricant, and preservative (CLP) by the Marine Corps Shooting Team. This product plays an essential role in maintaining weapons and equipment.
After field testing, the team reported several key benefits of the bio-based CLP. These included:
– A 50% reduction in cleaning time.
– Less smoke during firing.
– Reduced carbon buildup.
– Improved cycling and reduced malfunctions.
– Lower odor and reduced need for lubricant.
This real-time feedback allowed the Marine Corps Systems Command to see the benefits firsthand. As a result of this demonstration, the DOD now requires that all CLP used on weapons and systems contain at least 33% bio-based content. This change marks the first time a weapon system specification has included bio-based materials. When fully implemented, this shift is expected to save $1.74 million annually.
Other Successful Demonstrations
The STED Program’s successes are not limited to weapons maintenance. The **Army Materiel Command** and **Anniston Army Depot** demonstrated the effectiveness of bio-based sorbents for absorbing oil and chemical spills. Unlike traditional sorbents, which contain the carcinogen crystalline silica, the bio-based alternatives are safer and more effective. If adopted throughout the DOD, these sorbents could save $6.1 million annually and protect personnel from harmful exposure.
In another demonstration, the program showcased sustainable, energy-efficient building doors. These doors significantly reduce energy loss in military facilities, which could save the DOD $170 million per year in energy costs if implemented widely.
Another noteworthy achievement was the development of LED alternatives to disposable chemiluminescent lights (chem lights). The new LED lights offer better performance, durability, and brightness, potentially saving $1.9 million annually if adopted DOD-wide.
Expanding Beyond the DOD
The STED Program has begun collaborating with other federal agencies. One such partnership is with the FBI, which tested a new automotive tire technology that uses domestic soybean oil instead of petroleum-based materials. The successful testing led the FBI to adopt these tires for its field vehicles, marking a notable expansion of sustainable technology beyond military applications.
Additional Sustainable Solutions
In addition to the above examples, STED has successfully demonstrated several other bio-based or eco-friendly technologies. These include:
– Bio-based rifle bore cleaners.
– Bio-based corrosion inhibitors.
– PFAS-free disposable food service ware.
– Bio-based road marking paint.
– Bio-based brake cleaners.
– Safe sidewalk deicers.
Each of these technologies has the potential to improve performance, reduce costs, and protect both personnel and the environment.
Looking to the Future
The DOD has made significant progress in advancing the STED Program. The department continues to secure participation from major commands and is working on expanding the initiative across other federal agencies.
Asiello emphasized the department’s focus on implementing additional initiatives to expedite the adoption of these technologies. By doing so, the DOD can achieve long-term benefits, including cost savings, improved operational performance, and enhanced environmental protection.
Through the STED Program, the DOD is leading the way in demonstrating that sustainable technologies are not just beneficial for the environment but also vital for the success and resilience of military operations.
To read original news visit DoD website.