How Cities, Towns and Villages are Improving Recycling Practices

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): Since the launch of the Recycle Right pledge in April, more than 100 cities, towns and villages across the country have taken the pledge and begun sharing their stories and experiences in building more awareness around proper recycling practices. Communities are not only explaining the reasons behind their recycling initiatives but also detailing their successes and ongoing efforts to address the “how” of proper recycling. From challenges specific to their communities to general confusion about proper recycling habits, local leaders’ dedication to improving recycling efforts highlights the collective effort needed to advance sustainable practices nationwide.

Making education a standard part of a community’s recycling program is important to increase resident satisfaction and confidence in recycling. By sharing these stories and comments, we aim to showcase the innovative strategies and impactful actions taken to enhance local recycling programs.

City of Lovejoy, GA – Shoebox Parade

The City of Lovejoy hosted an event for children called the “Shoebox Parade.” Participants were encouraged to bring one or more shoeboxes from home, along with decorations made from repurposed household items. Kids learned how to recycle their shoeboxes by decorating them and attaching wheels and pull strings. Afterward, the children proudly showcased their amazing creations, concluding with a prize ceremony.

City of Dumas, AR – “Keep Arkansas Beautiful”

Each fall, the residents of Dumas join fellow Arkansans in enhancing their communities by participating in the Great Arkansas Cleanup, an annual litter pickup and community beautification event organized by Keep Arkansas Beautiful. This initiative encourages residents to take pride in Arkansas’s scenic beauty, environmental health and overall quality of life. Under Mayor Price Boney’s leadership, Dumas has been a proactive participant in this statewide effort. “We pride ourselves in our annual participation in Keep Arkansas Beautiful,” the mayor says.  Last year, volunteers from all 75 counties in Arkansas removed over 630 tons of litter.

Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com