DEPARTMENT: Solid Waste Management
DEPARTMENT HEAD: David W. McCary
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Commercial Recycling Assistance Programs (ReWorksSA)
SUMMARY:
In keeping with the direction approved by City Council in the City's Recycling and Resource Recovery Plan, the Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) has prepared a suite of recycling and waste reduction incentive and assistance programs to help "improve recycling opportunities for businesses."
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
In late 2010 and again in 2013, the City Council adopted the Recycling and Resource Recovery Plan which has three goals:
1. 60% recycling rate for single-family residents
2. Convenient recycling for multi-family residents
3. Increased recycling opportunities for businesses
In order to achieve the third goal, SWMD conducted several stakeholder meetings with the business community. This resulted in program recommendations that were presented to City Council during the FY2016 budget.
? Provide businesses with implementation support for businesses that want to recycle
? Create a recognition program for businesses with a successful recycling program
? Ensure any future business recycling ordinance will be phased in gradually and account for the diversity of business' waste streams
Since that time, SWMD has expanded relationships with the business community, built the Commercial Recycling Team (branded ReWorksSA), and worked with stakeholders and other COSA departments (e.g. Information Technology Services Department, Government & Public Affairs, Office of Sustainability) to design and conduct limited tests of recycling incentive and assistance programs based on those recommendations.
The ReWorksSA programs are designed to connect businesses to cost effective recycling solutions, with a focus on small and medium sized businesses. They include consulting services, a recognition program, free indoor recycling containers, and a website with informational re...
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