KU News Release

LAWRENCE — Three seniors from the University of Kansas worked to reduce industrial emissions, waste and environmental degradation during internships with Kansas companies this summer.

The KU students were among 10 engineering and environmental sciences students participating in the Kansas State University Pollution Prevention Institute intern program. The program challenges students to develop waste-reducing solutions for businesses that want to diminish their operating costs, regulatory compliance burdens and environmental footprint.

KU participants were Nicholas Ginther, Dodge City; Aaron Scott King, Derby; and Wayne Thomas Larson, Wichita.

Collectively, the group identified savings of more than 8.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, 9.9 million gallons of water, 480 tons of solid waste and $700,000 in operating and disposal costs for Kansas business and industry.

“The interns gain hands-on experience in an industrial setting as well as an understanding of pollution prevention strategies for problem solving and environmental management,” said Nancy Larson, director of the Pollution Prevention Institute.

Students must have at least junior standing to apply for the program. Those interested can visit the Pollution Prevention Institute Web site for more information about summer 2010 internships.

KU interns are listed below by hometown, year in school, major, parents’ names, high school and host company.

FORD COUNTY
From Dodge City 67801
Nicholas Ginther, senior in human biology, son of Clay and Becky Ginther; Dodge City Senior High School; various Kansas health care facilities.

SEDGWICK COUNTY
From Derby 67037
Aaron Scott King, senior in chemical engineering, son of John and Jean King; Derby High School; Associated Wholesale Grocers of Overland Park.

From Wichita 67220
Wayne Thomas Larson, senior in journalism, son of Mark and Nancy Larson; Wichita Heights High School; various pharmaceutical facilities.