Lots of Local Action in the Wonderful World of Solid Waste

The County and City want to bring a special update on two efforts related to waste: (1) Solid Waste Action planning, and (2) local waste diversion efforts.

First, we are calling all businesses to help shape the future of waste diversion in our community by taking a short (5 question) survey, sharing how waste diversion fits into your operations, what challenges you face, and what would help you recycle more. Your feedback will directly inform the solutions we pursue to extend the life of our landfill by another 10 years, from expanding voluntary programs to considering new recycling requirements for materials such as cardboard. Before anything is decided, we want to hear from you.

For several months, Summit County has been leading an effort to refresh the Solid Waste Plan. Key updates include:

• Improved diversion of landscaping waste (though there’s still room for improvement)
• Land for Recycle Utah’s future facility (near Home Depot)
• Improve cardboard diversion through implementation of a vertical bailer (paid for itself within months!)

Key strategies moving forward:

• Increase “remote” drop-off locations for residential recycling
• Park City’s waste reduction ordinance (84060 only)

This recent Townlift article gives a nice summary of what has been accomplished, and what is planned.

On April 30th, Park City Council will be considering a new waste reduction ordinance for 84060 businesses. It will require that all businesses have an account &/or plan for both trash and recycling and provide details of how their landfill and recycling waste are hauled. This is a critical first step to more effective waste diversion. To learn more, visit the link here or reach out to Celia Peterson. 

It is an exciting moment with lots happening to advance solutions to our community’s complex solid waste challenges. The County and the City can’t be successful with our goals to reduce waste and keep it out of the landfill without you – the dedicated business community. Let us know how we can support you!

Warmest regards, 

The Green Business Team