DEPARTMENT: Solid Waste Management Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: David Newman
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
ReWorksSA Program Update
SUMMARY:
This presentation is an update on the ReWorksSA commercial recycling program through the Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD).
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
ReWorksSA was launched in 2018 as a strategy to meet one of the three goals of the City’s Recycling and Resource Recovery Plan which was adopted by City Council in 2010. The goal of ReWorksSA is to improve recycling opportunities for local businesses by assisting with the development and implementation of a recycling program, which includes reviewing the businesses waste streams to determine recycling opportunities and providing recycling containers for small to mid-size businesses at no cost. Additionally, the program recognizes businesses for their recycling efforts through Bronze, Silver and Gold Certifications. Currently, there are 130 certified businesses, including Pearl, H-E-B, Goodwill of San Antonio, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc., as well as a number of small and minority-owned businesses. The program has been positively received by local businesses and has won several prestigious awards for marketing efforts.
ISSUE:
In an effort to build the program and encourage more sustainable efforts, the SWMD teamed with the Department of Sustainability to enhance this program with additional actions in line with the City’s Climate Action & Adaptation Plan. The program now contains additional certification criteria focusing on energy, water, transportation, and environmental policies. Recycling will remain fundamental for this certification. A new award level has also been added. It is called the Pinnacle Award.
While developing criteria for the new level, SWMD staff worked diligently to ensure equity and balance for small businesses through this certification. Staff has developed a comprehensive communications plan to ensure that organizations of all sizes are aware of the certification.
Benefits to organizations which attain certification include recognition by City of San Antonio leadership and inclusion in program marketing. Organizations can proudly display recognitions and awards at their location. All certified organizations will receive ongoing support for their recycling and sustainability programs and receive invitations to attend special partner events. Overall, the Pinnacle Award holders will contribute tangible, measurable results to San Antonio’s sustainability.
ALTERNATIVES:
This item is for briefing purposes only.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact from this briefing.
RECOMMENDATION:
This item is for briefing purposes only.