Councilmember Richard Conlin, chair of the Environment, Emergency Management and Utilities (EEMU) Committee, initiated a review of Seattle's solid waste programs and facilities in the fall of 2006 in order to improve recycling and waste reduction.
Last week, Councilmember Conlin and Mayor Greg Nickels announced new programs and policy directions for a new "Zero Waste" strategy that will reduce garbage, increase recycling and improve Seattle's management of its transfer stations. Upon completion of the 2006 review, the EEMU Committee analyzed its findings and sought public input into the appropriate mix of programs and facilities upgrades needed to work towards the "Zero Waste" goal.
The main components of the committee's strategy include the implementation of new programs in 2009 which will provide all single-family residences with food waste pick-up for composting, plans to increase the recycling of construction and demolition waste and the expansion of the two existing transfer station for improved recycling and the decision not to purchase land for a third facility. The "Zero Waste" strategy also includes expanding producer-responsibility programs and revising garbage rates for commercial customers.
"The people of Seattle are passionate about wanting a solid-waste strategy that embodies their environmental values," said Councilmember Conlin. "I'm very pleased that the mayor and I have found a way to do that. This is a critical step on Seattle's journey toward sustainability."
The "Zero Waste" strategy will be outlined in a resolution scheduled for a vote in the EEMU on July 10. Comments can be sent to Councilmember Conlin, PO Box 34025, Seattle WA 98124-4025 or via email at Richard.Conlin@seattle.gov.[[In-content Ad]]
