WGP Credit 4: Litter Prevention and Reduction Infrastructure (1 point)
Reciprocal
Intent:
To beautify public areas, prevent materials from polluting the natural environment, and encourage proper handling of materials by Local Governments and waste management Companies.
Local Government and Industry Requirements:
● Prevention
o Implement a program that encourages the adoption of durable products such as reusable bags and cups and disincentivizes single-use alternatives or eliminating disposable, single-use packaging at government sponsored community events.
● Reduction
o Maintain a sufficient number of receptacles in public areas including walkways, parks, and other public places.
▪ Receptacles should be both visible and have effective signage.
▪ Side by side receptacles for both recycling and trash.
▪ Receptacles must have openings that contain waste without impeding the introduction of new material (i.e. push flaps, tops).
o Consistent and reliable servicing of receptacles.
▪ A schedule is in place to appropriately empty receptacles nearing capacity.
▪ Limit overflow events to zero (0) per year.
● Enforcement
o Demonstrate rapid cleanup of illegal dumping within 72 hours of being notified of the illegal dumping.
o Demonstrate increased enforcement and fines for littering and illegal dumping.
o Add signage stating no liter or dumping.
Potential Strategies
● Example methods include unified language, artwork, vibrant colors, and/or colors that coincide with universal understanding
● In addition to trash, have multi-material disposal options (such as trash and recycling together).
● Local Government programs to eliminate or reduce usage of products that are frequently littered e.g. bag bans or taxes/promotion or distribution of reusable bags; water bottle refilling stations in public places.
● Partnering with local businesses or community groups and doing “Adopt a Street” programs.
● Consistent education through labeling of acceptable materials in all container types – i.e. trash or recycling
● Code enforcement of litter laws.
● Analyze usage of street bin infrastructure and develop / adjust schedule based on seasonality and city events.
● Include support for container deposit return systems, which have proven effective at significantly reducing litter and marine/waterway debris.
● Utilize cloud-based remote receptacle monitoring systems and “smart” bins.