Westchester County’s Department of Environmental Facilities (DEF) is working with Barton & Loguidice, a consulting firm, on a Waste Reduction Study that will serve as a guide for reducing waste generation and disposal throughout the next decade and beyond.
The study is seeking input from residents throughout the County to gather their opinions on current County waste programs and to learn about where they would like to see resources focused going forward. Barton & Loguidice comes to this project with extensive experience in developing waste reduction plans and strategies, working with municipalities throughout New York State and the nation. The Waste Reduction Study was made possible by a Board of Legislators initiative added to the 2024 Refuse Disposal District budget.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester County has made tremendous strides in waste reduction and recycling, but the journey toward a more sustainable County is ongoing. This study provides an opportunity for residents to be part of the solution. By sharing their insights and ideas, the community can help shape programs defining our environmental policies for the next decade. I urge every resident to participate in this survey and contribute to shaping a cleaner, greener Westchester for future generations.”
Westchester County Legislator Erika L. Pierce said: “Reducing waste is an enormous priority for Westchester. These important efforts are an investment in our County’s future, and the overall health and well-being of our residents. The success of our waste reduction efforts will hinge, in part, on the effectiveness of the policies we implement on the County level, and those policies will be best when they are informed by the direct input of community members. This survey gives an important opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on how Westchester can improve and expand its recycling and reuse programs. As we navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability, public engagement will ensure that the County’s approach remains inclusive and forward-thinking. I encourage everyone to participate in this important process.”
Department of Environmental Facilities Commissioner Vincent Kopicki said: “Westchester County has established itself as a leader in sustainability, but staying at the forefront of waste reduction requires constant adaptation and growth. This study will provide essential insights that will inform the next generation of waste management strategies. Whether you are passionate about composting, recycling, or reducing overall waste, your perspective will help shape the County’s approach.”
Department of Environmental Facilities First Deputy Commissioner Louis Vetrone said: “Through the diligence of our residents, and the numerous recycling and reuse programs offered by DEF, the County has been able to reduce the amount of residential waste it disposes of by 27% since 2005, a remarkable decrease. This study will examine opportunities to tweak our current programs and add new programs to ensure that the County continues to be a leader in waste reduction. Through this survey and the upcoming public meeting, our residents will have an opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas as well. We look forward to reviewing the results.”
Westchester County is a recognized municipal leader in waste reduction and recycling. Since 2005, the County has reduced the amount of waste it disposes of by over 27%. The County consistently posts annual recycling rates of at least 50%, far outpacing the New York State recycling rate of 43%. Over the past several years, DEF has introduced many new waste reduction initiatives and programs, including programs focused on food waste composting and textile recycling. But the County is not resting on its laurels.
Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYSDEC”) released the New York State Solid Waste Management Plan to serve as a guide to waste management agencies for the next ten years (2023-2032). The stated goal of the NYSDEC Plan is to achieve an 85% total waste stream recycling rate statewide by 2050. The Waste Reduction Study will help the County achieve the State’s ambitious goal.
The County and DEF are asking interested residents to participate in a short, online survey to gauge their knowledge of currently offered waste reduction programs and to find out what types of programs they would like to see available in the future. To participate in the Waste Reduction Survey, residents can visit DEF’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF]www.facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF or use this link: https://arcg.is/GDn8u0
A public meeting will also be scheduled in the coming weeks to provide another opportunity for residents to learn about this study, and comment on current waste reduction initiatives or suggest new ones. More information on that forum will be available soon.
For more information on Westchester County environmental programs and events, call the Recycling Helpline at (914) 813-5425 and follow us on Facebook at:
www.facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF]www.facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF
