HomeMy WebLinkAboutImproving Recycling 2-28-11.pptImproving Recycling in
Iowa City
Jen Jordan, Recycling Coordinator
City Council Work Session
February 28, 2011
Overview
Recycling rates have been stagnant over past 5 -6
years - -how can we improve rate?
Streamlined curbside system and education program
Expanded multi - family recycling
Curbside recycling
education and outreach program
Short term (next 6 months)
Evaluate system to
Simplify and distribute " "how to sort" sheet
Door -to -door education
Volunteer corps
Utilize ECO Iowa City brand if appropriate
Online outreach, tutorials, video clips
Continue measuring monthly tonnages for
improvement
Develop long -term curbside education plan
3- stream sort
Would ask public to sort into three streams
Fiber
Containers
Cardboard (under bin)
Residents could get second bin or just sort
in single bin
Staff would sort further at curb
Simplify streams
PUBLIC SORTS TO:
Newspapers
Magazines /Catalogs
Mixed paper /chipboard
STAFF SORTS T0:
Newspaper /magazines
Mixed paper
Cardboard /chipboard
Plastics #1-5 & 7
Metal can s
Plastics #1-5 & 7
Metal and aluminum cans
benefits
Would be easier for public
Would not incur tonnage charge for single
stream
Continue to use existing equipment, bins &
staff
Would maintain revenue from sorted
streams
Multi - family code
amendment update
Amend housing code to require recycling
facilities and service in all NEW apartment
buildings
Working with legal to draft amendment
Will work draft through various departments
Multi - family pilot update
Work with property owners and HIS to
develop range of solutions for existing
apartment buildings
Input from Greater Iowa City Area Apartment
Owners Association
Pilot project being developed
Eventually require recycling services for all
apartment buildings
Next steps
Roll -out of streamlined curbside program
Finalize flyer with Refuse, print and distribute
March: existing customers who recycle now (on bins)
May: existing customers who do not regularly
recycle (volunteers will take door to door)
Begin code amendment process
Finalize draft and vet through Joint Staff
Public hearing and to Council this summer
Develop pilot and solicit participants for fall